Afghanistan’s coach, Jonathan Trott, believes that his team’s incredible run in the T20 World Cup—which came to an abrupt end on Wednesday in the semi-final—has encouraged young people in the war-torn nation to take up a bat and a ball.

South Africa advanced to the final, where they will play either India or the defending champion England, after crushing Afghanistan by nine wickets.

Afghanistan elected to bat at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad, and they were bowled out for 56 runs in 11.5 overs.

Although Trott acknowledged that his squad had not been able to cope with the strain of their first World Cup semi-final, he remained “very proud” of the group.

Former England batsman Trott, who was born in South Africa, acknowledged his team had been “outplayed,” saying, “A lot to process really emotionally and physically, so all new territory for the guys and it all plays its part.”

He said, “I’m sure the guys will hopefully learn from this experience.”

Discover the skills required to play international cricket on a wicket that may not be ideal for high-scoring matches against bowling-dominant South Africa.

“We’ve found ways to win games; we just couldn’t find a way today,” he said, adding that his team was disappointed despite exceeding all expectations by making it to the final four.

Trott said, “It hurts right now, obviously.”

“We landed on the field in excellent spirits, prepared to face off against a formidable South African team and made sure we presented a positive image of ourselves.

“I think the most upsetting part is that we haven’t done it today.

“I’m very happy for the boys. The competition isn’t always defined by just one performance.

Afghanistan’s World Cup journey, according to Trott, had been “a great ride,” with highlights including a nail-biting victory against Bangladesh, Australia, and New Zealand to get to the semi-finals.

The squad brought in rare moments of national jubilation in a nation devastated by four decades of conflict and struggling with political, humanitarian, and economic issues.

Trott expressed his hopes that the game has encouraged young children to take up a bat and ball, play cricket, and wish to represent their country. He also hoped that everyone would be proud of the team.

Trott expressed his hopes that the game has encouraged young children to take up a bat and ball, play cricket, and wish to represent their country. He also hoped that everyone would be proud of the team.