ICC world cup 2023 - shocking defeats

 

      ICC Cricket world cup tournament happens once in 4 years, all cricket enthusiasts eagerly wait for this moment including me. 2023 world cup is more special as it is being hosted by India. As a cricket freak, i enjoy watching every single world cup match not necessarily played by India. Few matches supposed to be one sided, but it proved wrong. It has been amazing to see how few low ranked nations come so strong, played as a team unit in defeating very strong cricket nations. I am summarizing here few shocking defeats in 2023 world cup so far. 

1. England vs. Afghanistan

This was the first disappointment of World Cup 2023, what a game to remember for generations to follow.  Afghanistan scored 284 in 49.5 overs and England scored 215 all our in 40 overs. Not many would have imagined England lose against Afghanistan in the beginning of the tournament. Afghanistan had played a better cricket, a better teamwork. They appeared better bowling side compared to England, especially their spin department where both Mujeeb and Rashid took 3 wickets each with a decent economy rate. It was their first 2023 world cup match. 

2. Pakistan Vs. Afghanistan 

This was another super thriller match where Afghanistan beat Pakistan with just 4 runs. A decade ago, no one dreamt that Afghanistan beating Pakistan in world cup, but 11 players from Afghanistan created a history in world cup cricket with a major milestone to remember. Pakistan scored 282 in 50 overs; Afghanistan chased the target in 49 overs by losing only 2 wickets.  Pakistan didn't show much intent in both bowling and fielding, which allowed Afghanistan to score runs against Pakistan pacers with ease. As Babar Azam mentioned losing match against Afghanistan was hard to digest, it was consecutive 3rd major loss for Pakistan though their Semi Final hopes are still alive. 

3. SA Vs. Netherlands 

Match between SA Vs. Netherlands was another socking defeat for SA that they ever imagined. Netherlands proved everyone wrong by winning the match, they had shown great courage and teamwork. They outplayed especially in their bowling and fielding departments, defending a score of 245 Against SA wasn't easy but the Dutch team made it happen. It was one of the biggest disappoints for SA in 2023 - ODI world cup.