OTD: The remarkable story of how Afghanistan pulled off the biggest World Cup upset against England

After winning the toss and choosing to bat first, Afghanistan's opening pair of Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran made the most of the favorable conditions, getting off to a flying start. They put up an impressive opening partnership of 114 runs, with Gurbaz playing a spectacular innings, scoring a quickfire 80 off just 57 balls. His aggressive display, comprising of four sixes and eight boundaries, gave Afghanistan an early advantage and put England's bowlers on the defensive.

However, Afghanistan experienced a brief collapse, losing wickets in quick succession after spinner Adil Rashid removed Zadran and Rahmat Shah in consecutive overs. This wobble left Afghanistan in danger of falling short of a competitive total, but a composed fifty from Ikram Alikhil (58 off 66) and a quickfire cameo by Mujeeb Ur Rahman (28 off 16) lifted them to a solid 284.

Chasing 285, England's response never got off the ground. Fazalhaq Farooqi struck early, dismissing Jonny Bairstow for just 2, setting the tone for Afghanistan's aggressive bowling performance. Joe Root was bowled by Mujeeb Ur Rahman, leaving England teetering at 33 for 2. Dawid Malan briefly resisted, but his cautious 32 ended when Mohammad Nabi had him caught at covers.

England’s hopes largely rested on Harry Brook, who fought valiantly with a 66-run knock. However, Afghanistan’s spinners, particularly Rashid Khan and Mujeeb, continued to take wickets at regular intervals. Brook’s dismissal, caught behind off Mujeeb, marked the beginning of the end for England as their lower order folded swiftly​.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman was the standout performer, not just with the bat, but also with the ball, claiming three crucial wickets. His clever variations and tight control stifled the English middle order, as even experienced campaigners like Jos Buttler struggled to get going. Rashid Khan, Afghanistan’s talisman, added to England’s misery with three wickets of his own, including the final blow that sealed England’s fate.

England’s batting collapse was exacerbated by their inability to handle Afghanistan’s spin attack. Rashid and Mujeeb combined for six wickets, while Nabi provided vital support with his two dismissals. The defending champions were bundled out for 215.

This match will go down as one of the greatest moments in Afghanistan’s cricketing history. Their second World Cup victory, this time against a formidable team like England, showcased how far the Afghan side has come.