Former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer has some advice for the Afghanistan and Netherlands teams as they continue their journey in the ICC World Cup 2023. Jaffer insists that both teams should bat first to exert pressure on the opposition while defending their total. Afghanistan and the Netherlands unleashed the two biggest upsets of the World Cup by defeating England and South Africa, respectively.

Jaffer asserts that, in batting-friendly conditions in India, both teams should aim to bat first upon winning the toss. He says that when they bat first, they can achieve an above-par score, if not a massive total, and put the opposition in a dire situation, making them chase the target. Interestingly, this process is what worked in favor of both teams when they staged upsets against the cricketing giants.

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“AFG & NED should look to bat first going forward in the WC. Bat without scoreboard pressure. Even if they post par totals, they can make life difficult for teams chasing. It’ll increase their chances of getting a win.” Jaffer wrote on his Twitter handle.
Afghanistan team celebrating victory over EnglandOpens in a new window

AFG & NED should look to bat first going forward in the WC. Bat without scoreboard pressure. Even if they post par totals, they can make life difficult for teams chasing. It’ll increase their chances of getting a win. @ACBofficials @KNCBcricket @rashidkhan_19 #SLvNED #PAKvAFG

— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) October 20, 2023

Following the Netherlands’ historic victory against South Africa, the former India opening batter posted a humorous video clip on his official social media account. The tweet has since gone viral, gaining widespread attention on the internet. In the shared video, we could see that the “Waka Waka” song is being played, which was a tongue-in-cheek response to the loss.

Netherlands every World Cup 😅 #SAvNED #CWC2023 pic.twitter.com/CtKXZ6MeHo

— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) October 17, 2023

On October 17, in the ongoing ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023, the Netherlands achieved one of the most significant upsets in history. Led by Scott Edwards, they defeated South Africa by 38 runs in their third match. Edwards played a crucial role with a 78-run innings from 69 balls, helping the team reach a total of 245 runs for the loss of eight wickets.

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In response, they bowled out the Proteas for 207 in 42.5 overs. Jaffer’s advice is sound, and it is something that Afghanistan and Netherlands should take note of. Both teams have the potential to cause more upsets in the tournament, and batting first will give them the best chance of doing so.