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'Their Batting Will Fire': Ex-Indian Legend Hopeful Of England Qualifying For Semis Despite AFG Upset

image-lnssay4uEngland suffered a 69-run defeat against Afghanistan [AP Photo]

Defending champions England suffered an embarrassing 69-run defeat against Afghanistan in the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 at New Delhi on Sunday evening, raising several eyebrows over their top contender status. 

In pursuit of 285, England's batter failed to gauge Afghanistan spinners and fell victim to their attacking mindset, eventually folding for 215. 

Amidst all the backlash over their performance last evening at Arun Jaitley Stadium, former India opener Aakash Chopra has backed Jos Buttler and Co. of qualifying into the semi-finals stage. 

This was England's second loss in this World Cup having comprehensively defeated by New Zealand in the tournament opener.

Speaking on his own YouTube channel, Chopra opined that while the Three Lions have made their task difficult, the batting will fire and get the job done for them. 


Here's what Chopra said

"Will England qualify for the top four? They have made the job slightly difficult for themselves but I feel they will. I feel they will find a way. At some stage, their batting will fire. I don't think they have a rockstar bowling which will do an amazing job but I think they will manage. So England should qualify. 

"India, New Zealand and South Africa are looking the best. I am assuming the fourth team will be either Australia or England but let's see what happens."

With one win and two losses, England will next face an in-form South African side on October 21 at Mumbai.