Afghanistan batter’s show remarkable composure
The intense clash started with England winning the toss and opting to field first, with the goal of limiting Afghanistan to a manageable total. However, Afghanistan’s batting was marked by high-quality cricket and remarkable performances as they managed to reach a competitive score of 284 runs before getting bundled out in the final over.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz was the standout performer for Afghanistan, playing a blistering innings of 80 runs from 57 deliveries. Ikram Alikhil also made a significant contribution with 58 runs off 66 balls.
England’s bowlers put in a commendable effort to contain Afghanistan’s batting. Adil Rashid was the star of the show, claiming three wickets while conceding 42 runs in his quota of 10 overs. Mark Wood and Reece Topley also played crucial roles, both taking two wickets each.
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England suffers a huge upset at the 2023 ODI World Cup
In reply, England faced a stern test against Afghanistan’s skilled bowlers, and they were completely overshadowed by the Afghan bowling unit, suffering a shocking and unexpected upset by managing just 215 runs. Harry Brook emerged as the highest run-scorer in England’s innings, amassing 66 runs from 61 balls. Dawid Malan played a valuable supporting role by contributing 32 runs from 39 deliveries, but that didn’t help England avoid the loss.
Mujeeb Ur Rahman led the charge for Afghanistan’s bowling attack, taking three vital wickets for 51 runs in his ten overs. Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi also played pivotal roles, claiming three and two wickets to guide Afghanistan to a hard-fought and historic victory.
Mujeeb was adjudged ‘Player of the Match’ for his brilliant bowling.
Here’s how Twitter reacted:
Exceptional play by Team Afghanistan today, securing a thrilling win against England The team's determination and skill shone brightly. Well played boys!#AFGvsENG @ACBofficials pic.twitter.com/WeMYUSBALz
— Suresh Raina(@ImRaina) October 15, 2023
Bahot mubarak Apko Afghanistan. You out played England every department. Gurbazzaaaa you were amazing
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) October 15, 2023
Afghanistan defeats the current world champions by 69 runs. Congratulations to all of Afghanistan. Finally, we achieve our first World Cup win after a long wait. Well done #AfghanAtalan @ACBofficials
And a big thank you to all our Indian brothers and sisters… pic.twitter.com/LtzflPrEtx
— Wazhma Ayoubi(@WazhmaAyoubi) October 15, 2023
Afghanistan cricket has come a loooong way.pic.twitter.com/Gxz6uely8c
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) October 15, 2023
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