Afghan veteran spinner Rashid Khan recently made a big revelation about his safety measures while travelling in his own nation. The 27-year-old recently had a straightforward conversation with the former England skipper Kevin Pietersen.
Despite being one of the most reputable cricketers of the modern era, Rashid’s life is filled with full of challenges when he travels back home. Due to his safety concerns, Afghanistan’s star cricketer has prioritized traveling in a bulletproof car.
Rashid’s Casual Discussion to Serious Conversation
Initially, Rashid Khan started the discussion casually with Kevin Pietersen about his routine life and rise to fame.
Suddenly, the conversation turned into a serious mode when the former English cricketer questioned Rashid’s ability to roam freely around the streets of Kabul. Here is what Afghanistan’s T20 skipper said:
“No! To be honest, I do have a bulletproof car, as I can’t walk freely in the streets of Afghanistan,” Rashid said.
The Afghan cricketer’s tone, starting with a blunt reply, shocked Pietersen.
Furthermore, Rashid gave a simple answer when he was asked the reason behind his extreme safety measures to own a bulletproof car in Kabul:
“See! It’s normal in Afghanistan, as every individual prefers it. Mainly, it is for safety to protect from getting trapped in the wrong place at the wrong time. Everyone follows it,” Rashid added.
Luxury vs Safety: Rashid Khan’s Bulletproof Car
Due to the increasing security threats in Afghanistan, the bulletproof vehicle is primarily a source of protection and survival for Rashid Khan rather than a sign of celebrity’s supremacy or luxury.
Even though the situation has improved in certain areas of the nation, the insecurity has remained in the same pattern of crisis in the nation. Especially, the noteworthy celebrities are prone to such risks in Afghanistan.
Rashid, being one of the most prominent sportspersons of Afghanistan, considers extra protection as mandatory rather than a feasible alternative.
Kevin Pietersen was Surprised by Rashid Khan’s Statement
As Rashid Khan said that such extreme measures are common in his nation, Kevin Pietersen was left in complete shock.
However, the Afghanistan spinner showed perfect composure throughout his conversation. This outlines the fact of how the most recognizable personality of international cricket has been used to such chaos after living in a chaotic place like Afghanistan.
Will Rashid Khan Be the Main Target?
Rashid Khan’s unprecedented fame, influence, and huge monetary success make him the most popular global face, which further adds a high level of threats.
Apart from being Afghanistan’s key spin bowler, his success level in franchise T20 leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Big Bash League (BBL), and several others earned him massive recognition at a global level.
Rashid is well aware of the fact that in a nation where instability remains a painful truth, the huge wealth and stardom of a sportsperson can soon turn into a target. The young Afghan bowler accepts the fact that one wrong moment at the wrong place could lead to severe negative results.
High Fame with No Basic Freedom
It is understood that Rashid Khan’s bulletproof car is a symbol of protection and mitigating risks rather than just to show off his high financial status and international popularity.
Despite achieving huge success, Rashid regrets not enjoying the basic pleasure of staying safe at home. Every step in his life is fully protected without any casual walking, unplanned outings, or lack of fun moments in public events.
However, the most surprising part is about Rashid’s gratitude, as his words only highlight reality without any trace of frustration or discomfort. His humble nature points out his determination and psychological grit to battle against all odds both on and off the field.
Main Reason to Prioritize Rashid Khan’s Personal Safety
Rashid Khan’s public safety has become a big concern, as he earlier voiced his opinion on social issues, particularly against the harsh rules and regulations in Afghanistan. His words mainly supported women’s basic rights and their educational needs.
His fame to support Afghan women and young girls, Rashid’s influence escalated beyond being a cricketer and became a voice of support. But his bold approach might attract unexpected risks to his life. So, his personal safety becomes even more crucial in a highly unstable region.
Final Thoughts
Rashid Khan earlier shared one of the most painful memories during his childhood, when he feared stepping outside to play cricket.
At one stage, his dream to play for Afghanistan seemed to be unrealistic. But his rise to fame and stardom at the international level offered pride and inspiration to his nation that had starved to grab positive headlines for years.
Although Rashid has often faced the struggles of not being able to walk freely in his own nation and travelling with fully protected cars, he continues to play for Afghanistan with immense enthusiasm and self-confidence.