We’re not talking about being normal, we’re light years away, we’ll probably never get there. But when you’re desperate, even the reflection of the light bulb in the mirror looks like a ray of sunshine. The Afghan team’s victory over the Scottish team in the opening match of the T20 World Cup being played in the United Arab Emirates has brought a little bit of joy to those who have always worked – in spite of themselves – for their livelihood.

This is the first time an international sporting event has been held since the Taliban returned to power. Twenty20 cricket is one of the main formulas of the game. This is part of a variant called limited overs, or games that include an over limit for each innings, to avoid challenges lasting days.

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“We reminded the world that Afghanistan still exists – Ali Khan Shanghai, a businessman from Kabul, told Arab News website in tears – when I heard the national anthem and saw its flag, I could not help myself. The political situation in the country You all know what it is. This victory is a symbol of our ability to survive.” “Teaching Scotland a similar lesson…no one can beat the resilience of our youth,” said Abdul Saboor Atay, a student at Al Azhar University in the capital.

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The match played at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium saw the dominance of Afghanistan, the final score being 190-60. The Taliban, which returned to power on August 15 following the withdrawal of US troops, has always been opposed to any form of public entertainment. But the fact that government spokespersons on social media celebrated victory over Scotland gives hope that at least that approach has changed something. Zabihullah Mujahid tweeted: “Congratulations to all Afghans on their victory in the Twenty20 World Cup match.” The representative of the United Nations, Suhail Shaheen echoed him: “Good friends! May Allah be with you in your next victory.” On Friday, Afghanistan will return to the field against historic rivals Pakistan. New Zealand is also included in this group. The first two proceed to the second stage.

Before the start of the tournament, captain Mohammad Nabi admitted that at this point of time, cricket in our country brings happiness. We hope to make the entire population smile.” But the future of the sport in that tormented land is at risk: if Afghanistan doesn’t field a women’s team—something banned by the Taliban, even if not officially—it should Can be excluded from international competitions.