Rashid said Afghanistan's semi-final is "like a dream"

Afghanistan reached their first-ever ICC global competition round of four with a victory over Bangladesh in a low-scoring thriller. Australia has also been eliminated as a result of the outcome.

"It's unbelievable," Rashid remarked. "Everyone back home is ecstatic for us. "It's like a dream for us to be in a semi-final."

Since joining the International Cricket Council (ICC) as an affiliate member in 2001, Afghanistan has had an incredible rise.

They became Full Members only in 2017, and now, seven years later, they will play on Thursday in Trinidad (01:30 BST) in hopes of qualifying for their first-ever final against South Africa.

"We had to push ourselves for the people back home, for their happiness and to make the country proud," Rashid, 25, said.

"I'm sure there is now a huge celebration going on back home. It's a significant accomplishment for us.

"I'm really pleased with how well our team performed. It is imperative that we approach the semi-final with a clear head, simplify everything for ourselves, and ensure our enjoyment."

Afghanistan, who defeated Bangladesh by eight runs to advance from the Super 8s, will take on South Africa in their maiden World Cup semi-final on Wednesday.

Afghanistan is participating in its seventh T20 World Cup; its previous three trips ended in the group stage. In 2016, they advanced to the Super 10s, and in 2021 and 2022, they made it to the Super 12s.

Following Monday's thrilling victory over Bangladesh in the midst of heavy rain, Rashid remarked, "I think the semi-final is going to be a massive, massive inspiration for the youngsters back home in Afghanistan."