World Cup 2023, ENG Vs AFG | Five Player Battles To Watch Out For

image-lnq00m5lEngland crushed Bangladesh in their last game [AP]

The Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi is all set to play host to England and Afghanistan for Match 13 of World Cup 2023 on Sunday, October 15.


ENG vs AFG: Five player battles to watch out for

With England back in their winning groove after their victory over Bangladesh and Afghanistan seeking their first win after two defeats, the stage is set for an exciting contest. Several individual battles within this larger clashes promise high-voltage cricketing action.

Ahead of the ENG vs AFG match, here’s a look at the top 5 player battles that promise a fascinating duel.


Jos Buttler vs Rashid Khan

image-lnpzoto7Jos Buttler (Twitter)

England skipper Jos Buttler has had his troubles against Afghan leg-spinner Rashid Khan. In their previous matchups, Buttler has managed to score 50 runs but has fallen to Rashid on four occasions. Rashid's ability to deceive batters with his variations will again be a significant challenge for Buttler, making this face-off an enthralling one.


Dawid Malan vs Mujeeb Ur Rahman

image-lnpzp5puMujeeb Ur Rahman (Twitter)

England batsman Dawid Malan faces a tricky challenge against Afghanistan spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman. With just 15 runs to his name and being dismissed thrice by Mujeeb, Malan will be wary of the mystery spinner's skills. Mujeeb's mix of off-spin and carrom balls could pose serious questions to Malan's technique and temperament.


Ibrahim Zadran vs Reece Topley

image-lnq02xifReece Topley in action [AP]

Young Afghan opener Ibrahim Zadran has shown vulnerability against left-arm pace in ODIs, especially in the powerplay. Stats reveal that he has scored just 20 runs and has been dismissed twice when facing left-arm seamers in the powerplay. 

With his nagging accuracy and movement, England's Reece Topley will aim to exploit this weakness, setting up an engaging battle of skills.


Rahmat Shah vs Mark Wood

image-lnq04zieMark Wood will be a threat to AFG [AP]

One of the key contests to look out for will be between Rahmat Shah, known for his proficiency against the short ball, and England's speedster Mark Wood, renowned for his blistering pace and bounce. 

While Rahmat has displayed comfort and dominance against the short-pitched deliveries, Wood's express pace may make it a challenging proposition, making their contest a fascinating watch.


Jonny Bairstow vs Fazalhaq Farooqi

image-lnq05ievJonny Bairstow in action [AP]

England's aggressive opener, Jonny Bairstow, has had minimal exposure to Afghanistan's left-arm pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi, having scored only two runs and being dismissed once by him. 

Farooqi's ability to get the ball to swing inwards, along with the natural angle created by his left-arm delivery, could trouble Bairstow. This matchup will be crucial in determining the initial momentum of England's innings.