World Cup 2019: 4 reasons why Afghanistan have faltered so far

#3 Hamid Hassan's lack of match fitness

The second highest wicket taker for Afghanistan in the 2015 World Cup disappeared from the scene post that tournament, only to reappear for the current edition.

Hamid Hassan

Hassan has had injury concerns, and since the end of the 2015 World Cup has featured in just 3 out of the 63 games that Afghanistan have played. That pretty much sums up his story.

If Hassan had played a majority of the games between the two World Cups, he might have been a different player altogether given the talent he possesses - which was amply showcased in the previous edition.

#4 Inability to handle pressure

Lack of exposure has meant lack of experience at the highest level, which has resulted in an inability to handle pressure. And that has showed in their performances this World Cup so far.

The players have faltered in crunch situations with the bat and their fielding has been nothing less than shoddy. Dropped catches, misfields, reckless shots and not playing out the 50 overs are some examples of their inexperience. Lack of games against top opposition has perhaps left them gasping for air in this tournament.

Afghanistan have played three games so far and have lost them all. They could have won the match against Sri Lanka as they were in a commanding situation at one point, but they failed to capitalize on the key moments. With six more games to go, it remains to be seen whether they can turn things around.