By Jo Harman

As they enter their third 50-over World Cup, Afghanistan’s record in the tournament doesn’t make for pretty reading. They suffered nine consecutive defeats in 2019 and have just one victory to show from 15 World Cup fixtures, a one-wicket win over Scotland at Dunedin eight years ago.
There is justifiable cause for optimism though as they head to India. Firstly, conditions should play into the hands of their spin arsenal, with Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman and the veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi supported by 18-year-old left-arm wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad. But, perhaps even...