Afghanistan has so far caused two significant surprises in the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup 2023, defeating defending champions England and fearsome Pakistan.
Talent, adequate training, a fighting spirit, and hard work have all contributed to Afghanistan cricket’s meteoric development. There is also another important component in Afghanistan’s progress, and that is India’s guiding hand.
Afghanistan cricket benefited from India’s guidance.
Over the previous few years, India has provided numerous benefits to Afghanistan cricket. Former Indian cricketers have assisted the national team with coaching. Afghanistan footballers also using Indian venues and facilities to practice and play at home.
The outcome is now obvious in the performance of Afghanistan’s cricket squad in the present big tournament. Though there have been many shocking surprises in the World Cup’s 48-year history, lower-ranked Afghanistan upsetting the reigning champions is genuinely unusual. This victory sets the foundation for Afghanistan to set lofty goals for future cricket achievements.
“It is one of the biggest upsets ever. I am really happy and overwhelmed by their victory. They have made history,” said Former India batsman Lalchand Rajput, who was Afghanistan’s coach from 2016 to 2018.
For many years, some Afghan players have been acquainted with Indian pitches, grounds, and circumstances. Some of Afghanistan’s greatest cricketers have earned important experience by playing for various Indian Premier League (IPL) clubs.
Afghanistan has been unable to hold international matches due to violence. However, India has been their home turf for over eight years. Many Afghan players have played in Dehradun, Greater Noida, and Lucknow, and they are taking advantage of the wonderful chance.
Afghani batters stun Pakistan
Afghanistan defeated Pakistan by eight wickets on Monday, their second giant-killing performance of the Cricket World Cup.
Afghanistan’s first three batters hit fifties, while their skipper, Hashmatullah Shahidi, produced an unbeaten 48 at No 4 in pursuit of a 283-run win target that they met with one over to spare.
It was Afghanistan’s first ODI victory over Pakistan in eight attempts. However, the result places England, the defending champions, at the bottom of the points table.
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