Cricket fans often invade the field hoping for a selfie or an autograph but one spectator in the 2026 Shpageeza Cricket League took things in a completely different direction. During a match in Khost on Friday, a fan ran onto the ground, snatched Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s cap and sprinted away, leaving players, officials and spectators in disbelief.
The unusual incident took place during the clash between Mis Ainak Knights and Band-e-Amir Dragons at the Rahmat Wali Masroor Cricket Ground. Play had briefly stopped when the spectator breached security and ran directly towards the Afghanistan wicketkeeper-batter.
Instead of asking Rahmanullah Gurbaz for a picture or an autograph, the fan grabbed the opener’s cap before making a quick escape. Security personnel immediately chased after the intruder but not before the surprising moment unfolded in front of everyone at the stadium.
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Despite the bizarre interruption, Rahmanullah Gurbaz remained calm and handled the situation with a smile. His teammates were also seen reacting with amusement as the incident quickly became one of the talking points of the match. Videos of the cap-snatching soon went viral on social media, with many fans praising the Afghanistan star for taking the incident lightly instead of reacting angrily.
The unexpected moment did little to affect Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s performance. As captain, he had earlier won the toss and chose to bowl first, a decision that proved successful. Band-e-Amir Dragons, led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, were bowled out for just 114 in 19.3 overs.
Ziaur Rahman and Mujeeb Ur Rahman claimed three wickets each, while Khalil Gurbaz and Nooristani Omarzai picked up two wickets apiece. Azizullah Miakhil was the top scorer for the Dragons with 30 runs off 25 balls.
Chasing 115, Mis Ainak Knights reached the target in only 9.4 overs. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Khalid Taniwal both scored impressive half-centuries to seal an emphatic eight-wicket victory, helping the Knights climb to second place in the five-team tournament after their opening two matches.
