Afghanistan has surprised the whole world by beating England at the ICC Cricket World Cup and also registering a dominating victory over the Englishmen. The Afghans played a team game, which is even more remarkable that helped them secure the win over England by a huge margin of 69 runs. Afghanistan has developed hugely in recent years in terms of cricket, and they have also given tough fights to several cricket giants. However, defeating one of the biggest names in cricket and that too in the World Cup, is something that absolutely came out of nowhere.
Afghanistan beating England
Afghanistan indeed made a brilliant effort in defeating their opponent that too by a long margin of 69 runs. The Arun Jetlay Stadium has been predominantly seen for batting in this World Cup, and it reflected on the Afghani opener’s batting, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who scored 80 of only 57 balls 8 fours, and 4 sixes. Also, their wicket-keeper batsman Ikram Alikhil scored a well-made half-century, and with the joint efforts of the other players, Afghanistan reached a fighting total of 284.
England coming to bat weren’t as strong as they usually look and Afghanistan were able to pick up wickets at frequent intervals. Only Harry Brook was able to stand strong and scored 66 of 61 balls with 7 fours and a six however being a lone warrior wasn’t enough to take England above the victory line, and they eventually got all out in 215.
Magnificent effort by Afghanistan
As mentioned, no one thought that Afghanistan would beat England that too in a game in the World Cup. Despite the big names present in the English team, the Afghans were able to secure the win over the mighty Englishmen. Also, credit goes to Mujeeb Ur Rahman who played a speedy knock at the end to get Afghanistan to a good total and in bowling also picked up three wickets. He received the Player of the Match award for his heroic performance.
Is there a chance for Afghans?
It has been their first match in this World Cup where they secured the win. Despite their beating the Englishmen, it still can’t be predicted that they will win the World Cup or not. The favorites to win the tournament are still the host nation, India, and apart from that, South Africa and New Zealand are also considered to reach the knockouts easily based on their incredible performance. However, if Afghanistan can beat the odds, then it will indeed be good for the game of cricket as a fully unpredicted team will win the tournament, which will also inspire many nations to come and play cricket, just like India did in 1983.
Read More: ICC World Cup 2023: India registers a dominating victory again against Pakistan, going 8-0 in CWC
