The rivalry between the Afghanistan National Cricket Team and the England Cricket Team is one of the most fascinating stories in modern cricket. While England is one of the oldest cricketing nations with a rich history dating back to the 19th century, Afghanistan is a rising cricket power that earned full ICC membership only in 2017. Despite the difference in experience, whenever these two teams meet, the contest draws global attention.
In this article, we’ll explore the Afghanistan vs England cricket timeline, highlighting key matches, World Cup clashes, and memorable moments.
Early Encounters
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2012 ICC World Twenty20 (Sri Lanka)
Afghanistan faced England for the first time in international cricket during the 2012 T20 World Cup. England, being the defending champions, showcased their dominance and won convincingly. However, this match was special for Afghanistan, as it marked their arrival against a top-tier cricketing nation.
World Cup Meetings
2015 ICC Cricket World Cup
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Afghanistan and England were placed in different groups and did not meet in this edition. However, Afghanistan impressed by securing their first-ever World Cup victory (against Scotland), which set the tone for future encounters.
2019 ICC Cricket World Cup (England & Wales)
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One of the most memorable clashes came in June 2019 at Old Trafford, Manchester.
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England posted a mammoth 397/6, thanks to Eoin Morgan’s record-breaking 148 off 71 balls with 17 sixes – the most in a World Cup innings.
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Afghanistan fought hard but could only manage 247/8, losing by 150 runs. Despite the defeat, Afghan spinner Rashid Khan gained experience bowling to some of the world’s best batsmen.
2023 ICC Cricket World Cup (India)
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This match became historic for Afghanistan cricket.
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On 15 October 2023 in Delhi, Afghanistan stunned the cricketing world by defeating England.
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Afghanistan scored 284, with contributions from Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ikram Alikhil.
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Their bowlers, led by Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Rashid Khan, bowled brilliantly to dismiss England for 215.
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Afghanistan won by 69 runs, marking their first-ever victory against England in ODIs.
This match was a turning point, showing that Afghanistan had grown into a competitive force in world cricket.
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T20 World Cup Clashes
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2012 T20 World Cup – First meeting, won by England.
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2016 T20 World Cup (India) – Afghanistan shocked England by putting up a tough fight. Although England won by 15 runs, Afghanistan’s bowlers exposed weaknesses in England’s middle order.
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2022 T20 World Cup (Australia) – England faced Afghanistan in Perth. England chased down 113 with ease, winning by 5 wickets. Despite the loss, Afghanistan’s bowlers impressed with their discipline.
Key Players in Afghanistan vs England Matches
Afghanistan Stars
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Rashid Khan – The leg-spinner has been Afghanistan’s biggest weapon against strong batting line-ups.
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Mujeeb Ur Rahman – Known for his variations in spin bowling.
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Rahmanullah Gurbaz – A powerful opening batter capable of attacking early.
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Mohammad Nabi – Veteran all-rounder providing stability in batting and off-spin options.
England Stars
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Eoin Morgan – His explosive batting in 2019 left a lasting mark.
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Ben Stokes – A match-winner with both bat and ball.
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Jos Buttler – England’s current captain and destructive opener.
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Adil Rashid – Key spinner who often challenges Afghan batsmen.
Timeline Summary
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2012 – First meeting at T20 World Cup (England win).
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2016 – Afghanistan challenge England in T20 World Cup (close contest).
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2019 – England dominate in World Cup, Morgan hits record 17 sixes.
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2022 – England win in T20 World Cup in Perth.
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2023 – Afghanistan defeat England in ODI World Cup (historic win).
Head-to-Head Record (as of 2023)
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ODIs: Played 3 – England won 2, Afghanistan won 1.
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T20Is: Played 3 – England won all 3.
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Overall: England leads, but Afghanistan continues to close the gap.
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Why Afghanistan vs England Is Special
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David vs Goliath Story – England’s century-old cricketing tradition vs Afghanistan’s rapid rise.
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Passionate Fanbase – Afghanistan’s supporters bring unmatched energy to stadiums.
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Spin vs Power Hitting – Afghan spinners vs English power-hitters is always an exciting battle.
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Historic Upset – Afghanistan’s 2023 win proved they can beat the world’s best.
Future of Afghanistan vs England Rivalry
With Afghanistan improving rapidly and England being a top cricketing side, future clashes promise thrilling cricket. The 2027 and 2031 ICC World Cups, along with T20 tournaments, will provide more opportunities for these two teams to face off.
The Afghanistan vs England cricket rivalry is no longer one-sided. Fans around the world now look forward to competitive, high-energy matches between the two nations.
Conclusion
The Afghanistan National Cricket Team vs England Cricket Team timeline reflects the growth of Afghan cricket from newcomers to giant-killers. From their debut clash in 2012 to the historic upset in the 2023 Cricket World Cup, Afghanistan has shown resilience, talent, and the ability to challenge the best.
As both teams prepare for future ICC events, one thing is clear – whenever Afghanistan and England meet on the field, cricket fans are in for a memorable contest.