Afghanistan Stuns England in a Sensational Upset at World Cup 2023
In a jaw-dropping turn of events at the World Cup 2023, Afghanistan created history with a stunning 69-run victory over England. This remarkable win marked the very first time Afghanistan had triumphed over England in an ODI match, making it a landmark moment in their cricket journey.
The dramatic encounter unfolded at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. Afghanistan, batting first, posted a challenging total of 284 runs in 49.5 overs. The hero of the Afghan innings was Rehmanullah Gurbaz, who blazed his way to an electrifying 80 runs off just 57 balls. His explosive innings featured 8 fours and 4 towering sixes, and he maintained an impressive strike rate of 140.35.
Ibrahim Zadran also contributed with a sturdy 28 runs from 48 deliveries. However, the Afghan innings did suffer an early setback when Ibrahim Zadran was dismissed, with the score at 114.
Adil Rashid emerged as the most successful bowler for England, taking three crucial wickets for 42 runs in his 10-over spell, displaying an economy rate of 4.2. Mark Wood offered valuable support, securing two wickets while conceding 50 runs in 9 overs, with an economy rate of 5.5. Liam Livingstone chipped in with one wicket for 33 runs in his 10 overs, while Joe Root contributed by taking one for 19 in his 4-over quota.
Chasing a target of 285 runs set by Afghanistan, England faced an unanticipated challenge. The English team was bundled out for just 215 runs in 40.3 overs. The standout performer for England was Harry Brook, who notched up 66 runs off 61 balls, laced with 7 fours and 1 six. The second-highest scorer was David Milan, who contributed 32 runs from 39 balls.
The Afghan bowlers displayed exceptional skills to seal their historic win. Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Rashid Khan were instrumental, both taking three wickets. Mujeeb Ur Rahman delivered a spectacular all-round performance, scoring 28 runs off 16 balls with a striking strike rate of 175.00.
With this emphatic victory, Afghanistan now boasts 4 points from three matches, securing two wins and one loss. Meanwhile, England has encountered two losses and one win in their World Cup 2023 journey, with their sole victory coming against Bangladesh. Afghanistan’s momentous win sends shockwaves through the cricketing world, underscoring their growing presence and capability on the international stage.
