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 in opposition to Afghanistan, England had already skilled a loss of their opening sport in opposition to New Zealand, adopted by a victory in opposition to Bangladesh of their most up-to-date outing in Dharamshala. Then again, Afghanistan had confronted defeat of their first two fixtures.
England’s struggles and historic victory for Afghanistan
Nonetheless in a major turnaround, the Afghan crew 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 had 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 crew. 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 effectively sufficient and groups have gotten off to fliers in opposition to them. There are causes. Lots 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 believe England began badly right this moment,” Atherton mentioned.
“They had been sloppy. 5 wides to begin, Curran freely giving a free hit within the early overs. A misfield from Bairstow that went for 4. They simply appeared a bit off the tempo and that set the tone. They had been all the time chasing the sport from that time on,” the 55-year-old concluded.
