Since Eoin Morgan’s retirement, the fortunes of the 2019 ODI World Cup champions, England, have taken a significant hit. While they clinched victory at the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, their performance in the following ODI World Cup fell short, with early group stage exits and surprising losses to teams lower in the rankings. The specter of teams such as Ireland and the Netherlands looms large over England’s ICC event nightmares, with Afghanistan emerging as another thorn in their side in recent encounters.
### 1. England vs Ireland, 2011 ODI World Cup
Among the most thrilling matches in ODI World Cup history is undoubtedly England versus Ireland in 2011. England came into the game in fine form, thanks to solid performances by Jonathan Trott, Ian Bell, and Kevin Pietersen, who each notched up half-centuries, steering England to a formidable score of 327/8.
Ireland initially struggled, with three of their top four batters managing scores in the 30s, yet not converting them into substantial innings. That was until Kevin O’Brien took center stage, producing the then-fastest century in an ODI World Cup, amassing a remarkable 113 off just 63 balls. His innings, coupled with crucial partnerships with Alex Cusack and John Mooney, delivered a shocking 3-wicket victory over England, leaving fans in disbelief.
### 2. England vs Afghanistan, 2023 ODI World Cup
The brewing rivalry between England and Afghanistan gained traction at the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. Afghanistan, emerging as formidable opponents for the first time, posed a threat to all top-tier teams. Defending champions England stumbled out of the gate with a heavy loss to New Zealand but seemed to regain composure with a resounding victory over Bangladesh. However, their fortunes changed in the 13th match against Afghanistan.
Batting first, Afghanistan posted a competitive total of 284, driven by Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s dynamic 80 from 57 balls and further supported by Ikram Ali Khil’s 58 runs. England, with their deep batting lineup, seemed poised to chase down the target with ease, yet Afghanistan’s bowlers seized control. Despite Harry Brook’s resistance with 66 off 61 balls, England unraveled, bowled out for 215 within just 40.3 overs. Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Rashid Khan, both claiming three wickets, masterminded England’s collapse.
### 3. England vs Afghanistan, 2025 ICC Champions Trophy
England’s most recent heartache unfolded against Afghanistan in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, a clash unlikely to be forgotten soon. Afghanistan, batting first, tallied an intimidating 325/7, with Ibrahim Zadran’s stunning 177 anchoring their innings. England’s pursuit got off to a rocky start with quick losses of Phil Salt and Jamie Smith in the powerplay phase.
However, Ben Duckett and Joe Root steadied the ship with a 58-run stand. Root played a pivotal role, marking his comeback with a century, his first in ODIs for nearly five years. Although England was within touching distance, Afghanistan’s bowlers executed a late comeback to secure a narrow 8-run victory.
Looking ahead to the 2026 T20 World Cup and 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, current betting odds don’t place England among the top contenders. As they embark on a rebuilding phase, perceptions may shift closer to tournament time, possibly improving their odds significantly.
