(Image Source: AP)
[Saba Sports News] The 2023 World Cup witnessed a significant upset as Afghanistan, participating in only their third World Cup, stunned defending champions England with a resounding 69-run victory. Afghanistan successfully defended a target of 284, restricting England to just 215. This victory marked Afghanistan’s second-ever win in the World Cup, with their previous triumph occurring in the 2015 World Cup against Scotland.
While this upset was a highlight of the current World Cup, previous editions have also witnessed surprising outcomes. Considering Afghanistan’s status as a full member of the ICC and their possession of world-class spinners like Rashid Khan and Mujeeb-ur-Rahman, this victory against England might be considered less surprising than some earlier upsets. Here are four notable instances:
1. West Indies vs. Kenya, 1996 World Cup (Kenya win by 73 runs): Kenya, making their World Cup debut with limited experience, defeated a formidable West Indies side featuring stars like Richie Richardson, Brian Lara, Courtney Walsh, and Curtly Ambrose. Despite being bowled out for just 166, Kenya bowled out the West Indies for a mere 93, delivering one of the most unbelievable upsets in cricket history.
2. Pakistan vs. Bangladesh, 1999 World Cup (Bangladesh win by 62 runs): Bangladesh, not yet an ICC Full Member, stunned Pakistan, a team boasting legendary players like Wasim Akram, Saeed Anwar, and Shahid Afridi. Bangladesh set a target of 223/9 and successfully defended it as Pakistan crumbled to 161 all out.
3. England vs. Ireland, 2011 World Cup (Ireland won by 3 wickets): In a high-scoring encounter, England posted a formidable 327/8. Ireland, not yet a Full Member, seemed destined for defeat when they were reduced to 111/5. However, Kevin O’Brien’s explosive century in just 50 balls propelled Ireland to an astonishing victory with five balls to spare.
4. Sri Lanka vs. Kenya, 2003 World Cup (Kenya win by 53 runs): Kenya’s surprising win played a pivotal role in their journey to the semi-finals of the 2003 World Cup. Sri Lanka, featuring cricketing giants like Sanath Jayasuriya and Kumar Sangakkara, was bowled out for 157 while chasing Kenya’s 210/9. Kenya’s success in this tournament marked a historic achievement as the first non-Test playing nation to reach the World Cup semi-finals.
These upsets remind us that cricket is a sport where anything can happen, regardless of a team’s status or reputation, and they continue to be cherished moments in the history of the World Cup.