Underdogs No More: Afghanistan’s ODI World Cup Triumph

In the world of cricket Afghanistan’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of extraordinary. As underdogs in the international arena, they have consistently punched above their weight, often led by their talented spinners who have bamboozled the opposition with their mesmerizing skills. Names like Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Mohammad Nabi have become synonymous with Afghanistan’s success. However, in this year’s ODI World Cup, it was a fast bowler, Fazalhaq Farooqi, who stole the spotlight and played a pivotal role in Afghanistan’s triumph over Sri Lanka.

Fazalhaq Farooqi, a left-arm seamer, delivered a performance for the ages, picking up 4 wickets for just 34 runs, helping Afghanistan restrict Sri Lanka to a below-par total of 241. These figures marked his personal best in ODIs and were the second-best by an Afghan bowler in World Cup history.

Leading up to the tournament, Farooqi was Afghanistan’s primary seamer. However, his performances in the initial four games raised questions, with only two wickets to his name and an economy rate of 6.32 runs per over. 

Consequently, when faced with the decision of selecting a seamer on a spin-friendly Chennai track against Pakistan, the team management opted for Naveen-ul-Haq over Farooqi. In a surprising twist, left-arm wristspinner Noor Ahmad emerged as Afghanistan’s star bowler, dismissing key Pakistan batsmen.

In Pune, the playing surface generally favored seamers, prompting Afghanistan to reinstate Farooqi and leave out Noor. However, pitch conditions are rarely predictable, and on this occasion, there was minimal swing or seam movement available. Farooqi’s extraordinary skills came to the fore, as he moved the ball just enough to trouble the Sri Lankan batsmen.

Farooqi’s plan was equally effective against right-handers, as he bowled 18 out of 19 balls from around the wicket. His impressive figures of 1 for 21 from five overs, including 19 dot balls, highlighted his accuracy and control. Mujeeb, his teammate, provided valuable support, ensuring that Sri Lanka struggled to make an impact during the powerplay.

Farooqi has been Afghanistan’s go-to bowler for early breakthroughs, picking up an impressive 12 wickets in the powerplay at a remarkable strike rate of 36 in 2023. His consistency has set him apart from his teammates, as the rest of the Afghan bowlers have managed only seven wickets at a less effective strike rate of 84.

In the latter stages of the match, Farooqi’s variations continued to make an impact. He dismissed Charith Asalanka with a well-executed short delivery, leaving Sri Lanka reeling at 180 for 6. Farooqi’s ability to change the pace and keep the batsmen guessing further cemented his role as the hero of the day.

Afghanistan’s batters displayed their clinical efficiency during the chase, ensuring there was no room for a Sri Lankan resurgence. As they look ahead to their next match against the Netherlands, Afghanistan faces yet another pitch-reading dilemma. The decision to include or exclude Farooqi will not be an easy one, reflecting the depth of talent that Afghanistan now boasts.