Following England’s shocking 69-run loss to Afghanistan within the ODI World Cup 2023 match on the Arun Jaitley Worldwide Stadium in Delhi on October 15, former England cricketer Michael Atherton didn’t mince his phrases in expressing his disappointment.
Earlier than their sport towards Afghanistan, England had already skilled a loss of their opening sport towards New Zealand, adopted by a victory towards Bangladesh of their most up-to-date outing in Dharamshala. Alternatively, Afghanistan had confronted defeat of their first two fixtures.
England’s struggles and historic victory for Afghanistan
Nonetheless in a big turnaround, the Afghan workforce exhibited an distinctive all-around efficiency, making a stark distinction to their earlier performances. Requested to bat first, Afghanistan posted 284 in 49.5 overs, with Rahmanullah Gurbaz rising as the very best run-scorer with 80 runs.
In response to Afghanistan’s difficult goal, the three lions’ batting order faltered, they usually have been bowled out for 215, leading to a 69-run loss. Amongst England’s batters, Harry Brook stood out as the highest scorer with 66 runs from 61 balls. This victory marked a historic second for Afghanistan in World Cup historical past, because it was their first win over a full-member workforce. The Participant of the Match accolade went to Mujeeb Ur Rahman, highlighting his distinctive contribution to Afghanistan’s success.
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Michael Atherton lashes out at England
Talking to Sky Sports activities after the sport, Atherton positioned the blame on the English bowlers and fielders, emphasizing their function in permitting opposing groups to ascertain sturdy begins.
“England haven’t bowled nicely sufficient and groups have gotten off to fliers towards them. There are causes. Most of the gamers are undercooked by way of cricketing time, time in ODIs. However they haven’t hit the bottom operating and have made issues very troublesome for themselves now. I feel England began badly right now,” Atherton stated.
“They have been sloppy. 5 wides to start out, Curran gifting away a free hit within the early overs. A misfield from Bairstow that went for 4. They only appeared a bit off the tempo and that set the tone. They have been all the time chasing the sport from that time on,” the 55-year-old concluded.
