The amazing league round of the <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cwc-cricket-world-cup/" title="Cricket World Cup 2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Cricket World Cup 2023</strong></a> concluded with the hosts India ending on the top of the points table with nine off nine wins and qualifying for the knockout stage comfortably. Along with the Men in Blue, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand also played quality cricket in the round-robin stage and advanced to the semi-finals.

Pakistan, whose record is superb in Indian conditions, won only four out of their nine contests and ended up in the fifth spot, which forced them to return home. England looked miserable throughout the competition and failed to defend the title. Sri Lanka looked completely out of colour and concluded their journey with only two wins in nine matches.&nbsp;

The 1996 champions’ also failed to qualify for the Champions Trophy 2025 to be held in Pakistan, ending up in the ninth position in this tournament. Bangladesh, who have been playing ODI cricket since 1986, also put up a disappointing show for their fans, accumulating only two victories. In the dismal performances of these sides, their eminent players failed to display their best. Noting their unexceptional performances, it's time to have a look at the worst XI of the league round.

Here is the worst XI of the league round:

<img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1699514935109_Bairstow.jpeg" alt="Jonny Bairstow" loading="lazy"><figcaption>Jonny Bairstow (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption>

cJonny Bairstow struggled to be among the runs in this competition, amassing only 215 runs in nine matches at a dismal average of 23.88. Noting his stature, the England team management was expecting brilliant numbers from his bat, but he failed to justify his role in the side. England recorded their heaviest defeat against South Africa at the Wankhede Stadium, registering a 229-run loss. Bairstow, whose responsibility was to deliver a fierce start to his team along with his opening partner Dawid Malan, fell early to Lungi Ngidi after scoring only 10 off 12. &nbsp;

After losing to India in Lucknow, England’s chances for the knockouts were almost ended. Against Australia, he was expected to play freely and deliver a solid knock to his team. At the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium, in Ahmedabad, the English side fell 33 runs short while chasing 287 and Bairstow went back to the pavilion with a duck on the first delivery.

<img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1666843550475_Temba-Bavuma.jpeg" alt="Temba Bavuma" loading="lazy"><figcaption>Temba Bavuma. (Photo by DAVID GRAY/AFP via Getty Images)</figcaption>

South Africa have played attacking cricket in this competition but their captain Temba Bavuma’s form is a concern. On India’s batting-friendly pitches, the Protea stalwarts Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, and Heinrich Klaasen have looked spunky while Bavuma is failing to produce decent innings consistently.&nbsp;Appearing in seven games, he has scored only 145 runs at an average of 20.71. The right-handed batter couldn’t participate in the contests against England and Bangladesh and in his absence, Reeza Hendricks performed superbly as an opener.

In the massive 229-run win against the English team, Hendricks chipped in with 85 (75).&nbsp;With in-form Hendricks warming benches, Bavuma will have to display his batting mettle against Australia in the second semi-final at Eden Gardens. At Kolkata’s iconic ground, his task will be to tackle Australia’s ferocious bowling attack that includes match-winners such as Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Adam Zampa.

<img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1662486672113_Kusal-Mendis.jpeg" alt="Kusal Mendis" loading="lazy"><figcaption>Kusal Mendis (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption>

Kusal Mendis kicked off the tournament confidently with his bat, hitting 76 (42) and 122 (77) against South Africa and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-news/pcb-announces-shan-masood-as-pakistans-new-test-captain-shaheen-afridi-as-new-skipper-in-t20is/" title="Pakistan" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Pakistan</strong></a>. Following a couple of impressive innings, the 28-year-old’s struggle started in the competition. Mendis came out as captain in the crucial game against Australia in Lucknow, after Dasun Shanka left the tournament due to a thigh injury.&nbsp;Pathum Nissanka (61 off 67) and Kusal Perera (78 off 82) gave a perfect start to Sri Lanka against the Men in Yellow, accumulating 157 runs in 26.2 overs.

After the fabulous innings from both openers, Mendis’s role was to take the momentum forward. Still, he played a negligent stroke against Adam Zampa, following which the ball landed in David Warner’s hands. Mendis walked back to the dugout after scoring only nine off 13.

In the do-or-die game against India at the Wankhede Stadium, Sri Lanka got bundled out on 55 while chasing a humongous target of 358. With the fall of three early wickets, Mendis was expected to stand at the crease and take the game deep for his team. However, he failed to hold his nerves and capitulated on one after facing 10 deliveries.

<img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1698765862873_Shakib-Al-Hasan.jpeg" alt="Shakib Al Hasan" loading="lazy"><figcaption>Shakib Al Hasan. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)</figcaption>

The Bangladesh team management trusted experienced Shakib Al Hasan to lead their side in the <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cwc-cricket-world-cup/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>ODI World Cup 2023</strong></a>. In the sub-continent conditions, Bangladesh were expected to put up a great fight against quality sides, but they disappointed their fans with their unimpressive performance in this competition. Shakib, the skipper of the side, also didn’t justify his role in the side. As a batter, he piled up only 186 runs in seven matches at a poor average of 26.57.

While bowling, he got only nine wickets in seven games at an economy of 5.26. Noting Shakib’s vast experience and amazing skills, Bangladesh supporters weren’t expecting these numbers from their legend.&nbsp;In the Bangla side’s six-wicket victory over Afghanistan, Shakib made a vital contribution with the ball picking up three wickets. However, the 36-year-old failed to continue his form later which proved costly for the Bangla side.&nbsp;

<img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1697385297377_Jos-Buttler.jpeg" alt="Jos Buttler" loading="lazy"><figcaption>Jos Buttler. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)</figcaption>

England were the favourites to win the coveted trophy before the ODI World Cup 2023 began, but the 2019 champions completely lost confidence after their 69-run loss to Afghanistan, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. In the English side’s horrendous campaign, their premier batters made a vital contribution to their miserable performances.&nbsp;Jos Buttler also floundered under pressure while holding the reins of the side.

In the entire tournament, the wicketkeeper batter failed to score any half-centuries. Playing nine games, he averaged only 15.33 scoring only 138 runs at a strike rate of 97.18. As a skipper, the 33-year-old failed to set a precedent for his players. Under his captaincy, England became the first defending champion side to lose six games in a World Cup edition.&nbsp;

<img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1662031015480_Iftikhar-Ahmed.jpeg" alt="Iftikhar Ahmed" loading="lazy"><figcaption>Iftikhar Ahmed. (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption>

Iftikhar Ahmed’s job was to reinforce Pakistan’s lower middle order as a finisher but his numbers reveal that he emerged as one of the biggest failures in his side. Appearing in nine contests, he ended up with only 142 runs in eight innings at an underwhelming average of 23.66.&nbsp;The 33-year-old made his World Cup debut against the Netherlands, scoring only nine runs. In the high-voltage game against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the Men in Green were folded on 191, losing their last eight wickets for just 36 runs.

Iftikhar, who is known for playing spinners well, was mauled by Kuldeep Yadav after scoring only four runs.&nbsp;In the next contest against <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-news/cwc-2023-live-updates-odi-world-cup-2023-live-score-updates-on-south-africa-vs-australia-semi-final-2/"><strong>Australia </strong></a>at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, the Green Army was chasing a mammoth target of 368 runs and Ahmed joined Mohammad Rizwan when his team required 136 runs in 15.4 overs. In the crunch situation, the Peshawar-born player failed to prove himself, losing his wicket to Adam Zampa after scoring 26 off 20.

<img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1696477713578_Moeen-Ali-and-Tom-Latham.jpeg" alt="Moeen Ali and Tom Latham" loading="lazy"><figcaption>Moeen Ali and Tom Latham (Photo by Philip Brown/Popperfoto/Popperfoto via Getty Images)</figcaption>

England ended their journey in this World Cup on a positive note with a convincing 93-run win against Pakistan, at the iconic Eden Gardens, in Kolkata. Throughout the competition, the English team looked timid and underconfident under Buttler’s captaincy which scripted their early exit from the tournament.&nbsp;Moeen Ali, a vital member of the squad, looked out of rhythm with both bat and ball. With the bat, he hoarded only 95 runs in six matches at a miserable average of 15.83. Now talking about his bowling performance, the 36-year-old got only five wickets at an economy of 5.81.

The veteran allrounder became a part of England’s playing XI in the crucial contest against Sri Lanka, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, in Bengaluru, after warming benches in the contests against Afghanistan and South Africa. On the batting-friendly surface, England lost their five batters at a score of 85. In the pressure situation, Ali’s responsibility was to support Ben Stokes in the middle but he also fell into Angelo Mathews’ trap after scoring only 15.&nbsp;

<img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1662574386112_Shadb-Khan.jpeg" alt="Shadab Khan" loading="lazy"><figcaption>Shadab Khan. (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption>

Shadab Khan faced a lot of criticism for his terrible bowling performance in the tournament. On one hand, spinners such as Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Adam Zampa are taking advantage of turning pitches and delivering match-winning performances to their teams. At the same time, Shadab was ineffective with the ball, scalping only two wickets for Pakistan in six contests at a disastrous economy of 6.23.&nbsp;As a spin-bowling spearhead, he not only failed to deliver breakthroughs to his side but also leaked a lot of runs.

In the high-octane game at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Kuldeep wreaked havoc on Pakistan batters, while Shadab lacked confidence while defending the low score of 191 for his side. Bowling a four-over spell, he splurged 31 runs and went back wicketless in the game.&nbsp;The Green Army faced an embarrassing eight-wicket defeat at the hands of Afghanistan in Chennai. From the Afghan side, the 18-year-old Noor Ahmed claimed three scalps on his World Cup debut and won several hearts, while the experienced Pakistan leggie gave 49 runs in his eight overs and got no wickets in the second innings of the match.&nbsp;

<img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1696942433952_Mark-Wood.jpeg" alt="Mark Wood" loading="lazy"><figcaption>Mark Wood. (Photo Source: Gareth Copley/Getty Images)</figcaption>

In IPL 2023, Mark Wood shone with the ball for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), grabbing 11 wickets in four matches at an economy of 8.12. Noting his excellent bowling display in the cash-rich league, cricket pundits were expecting the pacer to showcase his bowling mettle for his national side England in this World Cup.&nbsp;However, the speedster played seven contests in the competition and got only six wickets at a sub-par economy of 6.46.

The English side began their campaign with a nine-wicket hammering from New Zealand in Ahmedabad and in this humiliating defeat, Wood delivered an expensive spell.&nbsp;In his five overs, the Black Caps plundered 55 runs and didn’t give any wickets. His next horrendous performance came against<a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-appeal/odi-world-cup-2023-australia-vs-south-africa-semifinal-2-top-player-battles-to-watch-out-for/" title=" South Africa " target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> South Africa </strong></a>at the Wankhede Stadium, and this time, he gave away 76 runs in his seven overs and didn’t get any scalps.

<img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1699107751004_Haris-Rauf.jpeg" alt="Haris Rauf" loading="lazy"><figcaption>Haris Rauf. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)</figcaption>

In the absence of Naseem Shah, the pace trio of Haris Rauf, Shaheen Afridi, and Hasan Ali was expected to do wonders with the ball. However, both Shaheen and Haris failed to trouble the opponents. In Pakistan’s 81-run win over the Netherlands, Rauf took a three-wicket haul and started the tournament with confidence.&nbsp;For the paceman, things went wrong for him against India in Ahmedabad.

Against the arch-rivals, he failed to pick up any wickets and gave away 43 runs. In his team’s 62-run defeat against the Aussies in Bengaluru, the 30-year-old recorded 1/97 figures in his nine-over spell. Both Aussie openers Mitchell Marsh and David Warner welcomed him by plundering 24 runs in his first over.&nbsp;Afghanistan routed Pakistan by eight wickets in Chennai and Rauf failed to daunt the opponents with his pace. At the end of the league round, Rauf also became the costliest bowler in a single World Cup edition, giving away 533 runs in his 79 overs.&nbsp;

<img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/featureimage/2016/12/Mustafizur-Rahman.jpg" alt="Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh" loading="lazy"><figcaption>Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh. (Photo by Kai Schwoerer/Getty Images)</figcaption>

Mustafizur Rahman didn’t look efficient for Bangladesh in this World Cup. Despite possessing a lot of experience and being familiar with conditions, the paceman bagged only five wickets in eight matches of the tournament, at an expensive economy of 6.06. After registering 7.0-1-28-1 bowling figures in his team’s six-wicket win against the Afghan side, the pacer leaked 70 runs in his 10 overs against England.&nbsp;At the iconic Wankhede Stadium, the Bangla side lost to South Africa by 149 runs and Mustafizur failed as a fast-bowling lead.

On Mumbai’s batting track, the speedster got ripped apart by the Protea batters. In his nine overs, he neither got wickets nor became successful in containing the flow of runs.&nbsp;In his last game of the tournament against Australia, he failed to be impactful with the ball again. This time, the Aussie batters took him to the cleaners and looted 76 runs in his 9.4-over spell. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>The amazing league round of the <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cwc-cricket-world-cup/" title="Cricket World Cup 2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Cricket World Cup 2023</strong></a> concluded with the hosts India ending on the top of the points table with nine off nine wins and qualifying for the knockout stage comfortably. Along with the Men in Blue, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand also played quality cricket in the round-robin stage and advanced to the semi-finals.</p>
<p>Pakistan, whose record is superb in Indian conditions, won only four out of their nine contests and ended up in the fifth spot, which forced them to return home. England looked miserable throughout the competition and failed to defend the title. Sri Lanka looked completely out of colour and concluded their journey with only two wins in nine matches.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The 1996 champions’ also failed to qualify for the Champions Trophy 2025 to be held in Pakistan, ending up in the ninth position in this tournament. Bangladesh, who have been playing ODI cricket since 1986, also put up a disappointing show for their fans, accumulating only two victories. In the dismal performances of these sides, their eminent players failed to display their best. Noting their unexceptional performances, it's time to have a look at the worst XI of the league round.</p>
<hr>
<h3>Here is the worst XI of the league round:</h3>
<h3>1. Jonny Bairstow&nbsp;</h3>
<figure class="image align-center" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1699514935109_Bairstow.jpeg" alt="Jonny Bairstow" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img>
<figcaption>Jonny Bairstow (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>cJonny Bairstow struggled to be among the runs in this competition, amassing only 215 runs in nine matches at a dismal average of 23.88. Noting his stature, the England team management was expecting brilliant numbers from his bat, but he failed to justify his role in the side. England recorded their heaviest defeat against South Africa at the Wankhede Stadium, registering a 229-run loss. Bairstow, whose responsibility was to deliver a fierce start to his team along with his opening partner Dawid Malan, fell early to Lungi Ngidi after scoring only 10 off 12. &nbsp;</p>
<p>After losing to India in Lucknow, England’s chances for the knockouts were almost ended. Against Australia, he was expected to play freely and deliver a solid knock to his team. At the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium, in Ahmedabad, the English side fell 33 runs short while chasing 287 and Bairstow went back to the pavilion with a duck on the first delivery.</p>
<p></p>
<h3>2. Temba Bavuma (Captain)</h3>
<figure class="image align-center" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1666843550475_Temba-Bavuma.jpeg" alt="Temba Bavuma" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img>
<figcaption>Temba Bavuma. (Photo by DAVID GRAY/AFP via Getty Images)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>South Africa have played attacking cricket in this competition but their captain Temba Bavuma’s form is a concern. On India’s batting-friendly pitches, the Protea stalwarts Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, and Heinrich Klaasen have looked spunky while Bavuma is failing to produce decent innings consistently.&nbsp;Appearing in seven games, he has scored only 145 runs at an average of 20.71. The right-handed batter couldn’t participate in the contests against England and Bangladesh and in his absence, Reeza Hendricks performed superbly as an opener.</p>
<p>In the massive 229-run win against the English team, Hendricks chipped in with 85 (75).&nbsp;With in-form Hendricks warming benches, Bavuma will have to display his batting mettle against Australia in the second semi-final at Eden Gardens. At Kolkata’s iconic ground, his task will be to tackle Australia’s ferocious bowling attack that includes match-winners such as Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Adam Zampa.</p>
<p></p>
<h3>3. Kusal Mendis&nbsp;</h3>
<figure class="image align-center" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1662486672113_Kusal-Mendis.jpeg" alt="Kusal Mendis" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img>
<figcaption>Kusal Mendis (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Kusal Mendis kicked off the tournament confidently with his bat, hitting 76 (42) and 122 (77) against South Africa and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-news/pcb-announces-shan-masood-as-pakistans-new-test-captain-shaheen-afridi-as-new-skipper-in-t20is/" title="Pakistan" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Pakistan</strong></a>. Following a couple of impressive innings, the 28-year-old’s struggle started in the competition. Mendis came out as captain in the crucial game against Australia in Lucknow, after Dasun Shanka left the tournament due to a thigh injury.&nbsp;Pathum Nissanka (61 off 67) and Kusal Perera (78 off 82) gave a perfect start to Sri Lanka against the Men in Yellow, accumulating 157 runs in 26.2 overs.</p>
<p>After the fabulous innings from both openers, Mendis’s role was to take the momentum forward. Still, he played a negligent stroke against Adam Zampa, following which the ball landed in David Warner’s hands. Mendis walked back to the dugout after scoring only nine off 13.</p>
<p>In the do-or-die game against India at the Wankhede Stadium, Sri Lanka got bundled out on 55 while chasing a humongous target of 358. With the fall of three early wickets, Mendis was expected to stand at the crease and take the game deep for his team. However, he failed to hold his nerves and capitulated on one after facing 10 deliveries.</p>
<p></p>
<h3>&nbsp;4. Shakib Al Hasan&nbsp;</h3>
<figure class="image align-center" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1698765862873_Shakib-Al-Hasan.jpeg" alt="Shakib Al Hasan" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img>
<figcaption>Shakib Al Hasan. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Bangladesh team management trusted experienced Shakib Al Hasan to lead their side in the <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cwc-cricket-world-cup/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>ODI World Cup 2023</strong></a>. In the sub-continent conditions, Bangladesh were expected to put up a great fight against quality sides, but they disappointed their fans with their unimpressive performance in this competition. Shakib, the skipper of the side, also didn’t justify his role in the side. As a batter, he piled up only 186 runs in seven matches at a poor average of 26.57.</p>
<p>While bowling, he got only nine wickets in seven games at an economy of 5.26. Noting Shakib’s vast experience and amazing skills, Bangladesh supporters weren’t expecting these numbers from their legend.&nbsp;In the Bangla side’s six-wicket victory over Afghanistan, Shakib made a vital contribution with the ball picking up three wickets. However, the 36-year-old failed to continue his form later which proved costly for the Bangla side.&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<h3>5. Jos Buttler (Wicketkeeper)&nbsp;</h3>
<figure class="image align-center" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1697385297377_Jos-Buttler.jpeg" alt="Jos Buttler" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img>
<figcaption>Jos Buttler. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>England were the favourites to win the coveted trophy before the ODI World Cup 2023 began, but the 2019 champions completely lost confidence after their 69-run loss to Afghanistan, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. In the English side’s horrendous campaign, their premier batters made a vital contribution to their miserable performances.&nbsp;Jos Buttler also floundered under pressure while holding the reins of the side.</p>
<p>In the entire tournament, the wicketkeeper batter failed to score any half-centuries. Playing nine games, he averaged only 15.33 scoring only 138 runs at a strike rate of 97.18. As a skipper, the 33-year-old failed to set a precedent for his players. Under his captaincy, England became the first defending champion side to lose six games in a World Cup edition.&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<h3>6. Iftikhar Ahmed</h3>
<figure class="image align-center" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1662031015480_Iftikhar-Ahmed.jpeg" alt="Iftikhar Ahmed" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img>
<figcaption>Iftikhar Ahmed. (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Iftikhar Ahmed’s job was to reinforce Pakistan’s lower middle order as a finisher but his numbers reveal that he emerged as one of the biggest failures in his side. Appearing in nine contests, he ended up with only 142 runs in eight innings at an underwhelming average of 23.66.&nbsp;The 33-year-old made his World Cup debut against the Netherlands, scoring only nine runs. In the high-voltage game against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the Men in Green were folded on 191, losing their last eight wickets for just 36 runs.</p>
<p>Iftikhar, who is known for playing spinners well, was mauled by Kuldeep Yadav after scoring only four runs.&nbsp;In the next contest against <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-news/cwc-2023-live-updates-odi-world-cup-2023-live-score-updates-on-south-africa-vs-australia-semi-final-2/"><strong>Australia </strong></a>at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, the Green Army was chasing a mammoth target of 368 runs and Ahmed joined Mohammad Rizwan when his team required 136 runs in 15.4 overs. In the crunch situation, the Peshawar-born player failed to prove himself, losing his wicket to Adam Zampa after scoring 26 off 20.</p>
<p></p>
<h3>7. Moeen Ali</h3>
<figure class="image align-center" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1696477713578_Moeen-Ali-and-Tom-Latham.jpeg" alt="Moeen Ali and Tom Latham" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img>
<figcaption>Moeen Ali and Tom Latham (Photo by Philip Brown/Popperfoto/Popperfoto via Getty Images)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>England ended their journey in this World Cup on a positive note with a convincing 93-run win against Pakistan, at the iconic Eden Gardens, in Kolkata. Throughout the competition, the English team looked timid and underconfident under Buttler’s captaincy which scripted their early exit from the tournament.&nbsp;Moeen Ali, a vital member of the squad, looked out of rhythm with both bat and ball. With the bat, he hoarded only 95 runs in six matches at a miserable average of 15.83. Now talking about his bowling performance, the 36-year-old got only five wickets at an economy of 5.81.</p>
<p>The veteran allrounder became a part of England’s playing XI in the crucial contest against Sri Lanka, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, in Bengaluru, after warming benches in the contests against Afghanistan and South Africa. On the batting-friendly surface, England lost their five batters at a score of 85. In the pressure situation, Ali’s responsibility was to support Ben Stokes in the middle but he also fell into Angelo Mathews’ trap after scoring only 15.&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<h3>8. Shadab Khan</h3>
<figure class="image align-center" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1662574386112_Shadb-Khan.jpeg" alt="Shadab Khan" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img>
<figcaption>Shadab Khan. (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Shadab Khan faced a lot of criticism for his terrible bowling performance in the tournament. On one hand, spinners such as Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Adam Zampa are taking advantage of turning pitches and delivering match-winning performances to their teams. At the same time, Shadab was ineffective with the ball, scalping only two wickets for Pakistan in six contests at a disastrous economy of 6.23.&nbsp;As a spin-bowling spearhead, he not only failed to deliver breakthroughs to his side but also leaked a lot of runs.</p>
<p>In the high-octane game at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Kuldeep wreaked havoc on Pakistan batters, while Shadab lacked confidence while defending the low score of 191 for his side. Bowling a four-over spell, he splurged 31 runs and went back wicketless in the game.&nbsp;The Green Army faced an embarrassing eight-wicket defeat at the hands of Afghanistan in Chennai. From the Afghan side, the 18-year-old Noor Ahmed claimed three scalps on his World Cup debut and won several hearts, while the experienced Pakistan leggie gave 49 runs in his eight overs and got no wickets in the second innings of the match.&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<h3>9. Mark Wood</h3>
<figure class="image align-center" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1696942433952_Mark-Wood.jpeg" alt="Mark Wood" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img>
<figcaption>Mark Wood. (Photo Source: Gareth Copley/Getty Images)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>In IPL 2023, Mark Wood shone with the ball for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), grabbing 11 wickets in four matches at an economy of 8.12. Noting his excellent bowling display in the cash-rich league, cricket pundits were expecting the pacer to showcase his bowling mettle for his national side England in this World Cup.&nbsp;However, the speedster played seven contests in the competition and got only six wickets at a sub-par economy of 6.46.</p>
<p>The English side began their campaign with a nine-wicket hammering from New Zealand in Ahmedabad and in this humiliating defeat, Wood delivered an expensive spell.&nbsp;In his five overs, the Black Caps plundered 55 runs and didn’t give any wickets. His next horrendous performance came against<a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-appeal/odi-world-cup-2023-australia-vs-south-africa-semifinal-2-top-player-battles-to-watch-out-for/" title=" South Africa " target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> South Africa </strong></a>at the Wankhede Stadium, and this time, he gave away 76 runs in his seven overs and didn’t get any scalps.</p>
<p></p>
<h3>10. Haris Rauf&nbsp;</h3>
<figure class="image align-center" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1699107751004_Haris-Rauf.jpeg" alt="Haris Rauf" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img>
<figcaption>Haris Rauf. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>In the absence of Naseem Shah, the pace trio of Haris Rauf, Shaheen Afridi, and Hasan Ali was expected to do wonders with the ball. However, both Shaheen and Haris failed to trouble the opponents. In Pakistan’s 81-run win over the Netherlands, Rauf took a three-wicket haul and started the tournament with confidence.&nbsp;For the paceman, things went wrong for him against India in Ahmedabad.</p>
<p>Against the arch-rivals, he failed to pick up any wickets and gave away 43 runs. In his team’s 62-run defeat against the Aussies in Bengaluru, the 30-year-old recorded 1/97 figures in his nine-over spell. Both Aussie openers Mitchell Marsh and David Warner welcomed him by plundering 24 runs in his first over.&nbsp;Afghanistan routed Pakistan by eight wickets in Chennai and Rauf failed to daunt the opponents with his pace. At the end of the league round, Rauf also became the costliest bowler in a single World Cup edition, giving away 533 runs in his 79 overs.&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<h3>11. Mustafizur Rahman</h3>
<figure class="image align-center" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/featureimage/2016/12/Mustafizur-Rahman.jpg" alt="Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh" width="600" height="454" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img>
<figcaption>Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh. (Photo by Kai Schwoerer/Getty Images)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Mustafizur Rahman didn’t look efficient for Bangladesh in this World Cup. Despite possessing a lot of experience and being familiar with conditions, the paceman bagged only five wickets in eight matches of the tournament, at an expensive economy of 6.06. After registering 7.0-1-28-1 bowling figures in his team’s six-wicket win against the Afghan side, the pacer leaked 70 runs in his 10 overs against England.&nbsp;At the iconic Wankhede Stadium, the Bangla side lost to South Africa by 149 runs and Mustafizur failed as a fast-bowling lead.</p>
<p>On Mumbai’s batting track, the speedster got ripped apart by the Protea batters. In his nine overs, he neither got wickets nor became successful in containing the flow of runs.&nbsp;In his last game of the tournament against Australia, he failed to be impactful with the ball again. This time, the Aussie batters took him to the cleaners and looted 76 runs in his 9.4-over spell. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The amazing league round of the <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cwc-cricket-world-cup/" title="Cricket World Cup 2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Cricket World Cup 2023</strong></a> concluded with the hosts India ending on the top of the points table with nine off nine wins and qualifying for the knockout stage comfortably. Along with the Men in Blue, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand also played quality cricket in the round-robin stage and advanced to the semi-finals.</p>
<p>Pakistan, whose record is superb in Indian conditions, won only four out of their nine contests and ended up in the fifth spot, which forced them to return home. England looked miserable throughout the competition and failed to defend the title. Sri Lanka looked completely out of colour and concluded their journey with only two wins in nine matches.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The 1996 champions’ also failed to qualify for the Champions Trophy 2025 to be held in Pakistan, ending up in the ninth position in this tournament. Bangladesh, who have been playing ODI cricket since 1986, also put up a disappointing show for their fans, accumulating only two victories. In the dismal performances of these sides, their eminent players failed to display their best. Noting their unexceptional performances, it's time to have a look at the worst XI of the league round.</p>
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<h3>Here is the worst XI of the league round:</h3>
<h3>1. Jonny Bairstow&nbsp;</h3>
<figure class="image align-center"><img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1699514935109_Bairstow.jpeg" alt="Jonny Bairstow" loading="lazy">
<figcaption>Jonny Bairstow (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>cJonny Bairstow struggled to be among the runs in this competition, amassing only 215 runs in nine matches at a dismal average of 23.88. Noting his stature, the England team management was expecting brilliant numbers from his bat, but he failed to justify his role in the side. England recorded their heaviest defeat against South Africa at the Wankhede Stadium, registering a 229-run loss. Bairstow, whose responsibility was to deliver a fierce start to his team along with his opening partner Dawid Malan, fell early to Lungi Ngidi after scoring only 10 off 12. &nbsp;</p>
<p>After losing to India in Lucknow, England’s chances for the knockouts were almost ended. Against Australia, he was expected to play freely and deliver a solid knock to his team. At the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium, in Ahmedabad, the English side fell 33 runs short while chasing 287 and Bairstow went back to the pavilion with a duck on the first delivery.</p>
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<h3>2. Temba Bavuma (Captain)</h3>
<figure class="image align-center"><img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1666843550475_Temba-Bavuma.jpeg" alt="Temba Bavuma" loading="lazy">
<figcaption>Temba Bavuma. (Photo by DAVID GRAY/AFP via Getty Images)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>South Africa have played attacking cricket in this competition but their captain Temba Bavuma’s form is a concern. On India’s batting-friendly pitches, the Protea stalwarts Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, and Heinrich Klaasen have looked spunky while Bavuma is failing to produce decent innings consistently.&nbsp;Appearing in seven games, he has scored only 145 runs at an average of 20.71. The right-handed batter couldn’t participate in the contests against England and Bangladesh and in his absence, Reeza Hendricks performed superbly as an opener.</p>
<p>In the massive 229-run win against the English team, Hendricks chipped in with 85 (75).&nbsp;With in-form Hendricks warming benches, Bavuma will have to display his batting mettle against Australia in the second semi-final at Eden Gardens. At Kolkata’s iconic ground, his task will be to tackle Australia’s ferocious bowling attack that includes match-winners such as Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Adam Zampa.</p>
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<h3>3. Kusal Mendis&nbsp;</h3>
<figure class="image align-center"><img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1662486672113_Kusal-Mendis.jpeg" alt="Kusal Mendis" loading="lazy">
<figcaption>Kusal Mendis (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption>
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<p>Kusal Mendis kicked off the tournament confidently with his bat, hitting 76 (42) and 122 (77) against South Africa and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-news/pcb-announces-shan-masood-as-pakistans-new-test-captain-shaheen-afridi-as-new-skipper-in-t20is/" title="Pakistan" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Pakistan</strong></a>. Following a couple of impressive innings, the 28-year-old’s struggle started in the competition. Mendis came out as captain in the crucial game against Australia in Lucknow, after Dasun Shanka left the tournament due to a thigh injury.&nbsp;Pathum Nissanka (61 off 67) and Kusal Perera (78 off 82) gave a perfect start to Sri Lanka against the Men in Yellow, accumulating 157 runs in 26.2 overs.</p>
<p>After the fabulous innings from both openers, Mendis’s role was to take the momentum forward. Still, he played a negligent stroke against Adam Zampa, following which the ball landed in David Warner’s hands. Mendis walked back to the dugout after scoring only nine off 13.</p>
<p>In the do-or-die game against India at the Wankhede Stadium, Sri Lanka got bundled out on 55 while chasing a humongous target of 358. With the fall of three early wickets, Mendis was expected to stand at the crease and take the game deep for his team. However, he failed to hold his nerves and capitulated on one after facing 10 deliveries.</p>
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<h3>&nbsp;4. Shakib Al Hasan&nbsp;</h3>
<figure class="image align-center"><img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1698765862873_Shakib-Al-Hasan.jpeg" alt="Shakib Al Hasan" loading="lazy">
<figcaption>Shakib Al Hasan. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Bangladesh team management trusted experienced Shakib Al Hasan to lead their side in the <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cwc-cricket-world-cup/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>ODI World Cup 2023</strong></a>. In the sub-continent conditions, Bangladesh were expected to put up a great fight against quality sides, but they disappointed their fans with their unimpressive performance in this competition. Shakib, the skipper of the side, also didn’t justify his role in the side. As a batter, he piled up only 186 runs in seven matches at a poor average of 26.57.</p>
<p>While bowling, he got only nine wickets in seven games at an economy of 5.26. Noting Shakib’s vast experience and amazing skills, Bangladesh supporters weren’t expecting these numbers from their legend.&nbsp;In the Bangla side’s six-wicket victory over Afghanistan, Shakib made a vital contribution with the ball picking up three wickets. However, the 36-year-old failed to continue his form later which proved costly for the Bangla side.&nbsp;</p>
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<h3>5. Jos Buttler (Wicketkeeper)&nbsp;</h3>
<figure class="image align-center"><img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1697385297377_Jos-Buttler.jpeg" alt="Jos Buttler" loading="lazy">
<figcaption>Jos Buttler. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>England were the favourites to win the coveted trophy before the ODI World Cup 2023 began, but the 2019 champions completely lost confidence after their 69-run loss to Afghanistan, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. In the English side’s horrendous campaign, their premier batters made a vital contribution to their miserable performances.&nbsp;Jos Buttler also floundered under pressure while holding the reins of the side.</p>
<p>In the entire tournament, the wicketkeeper batter failed to score any half-centuries. Playing nine games, he averaged only 15.33 scoring only 138 runs at a strike rate of 97.18. As a skipper, the 33-year-old failed to set a precedent for his players. Under his captaincy, England became the first defending champion side to lose six games in a World Cup edition.&nbsp;</p>
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<h3>6. Iftikhar Ahmed</h3>
<figure class="image align-center"><img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1662031015480_Iftikhar-Ahmed.jpeg" alt="Iftikhar Ahmed" loading="lazy">
<figcaption>Iftikhar Ahmed. (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Iftikhar Ahmed’s job was to reinforce Pakistan’s lower middle order as a finisher but his numbers reveal that he emerged as one of the biggest failures in his side. Appearing in nine contests, he ended up with only 142 runs in eight innings at an underwhelming average of 23.66.&nbsp;The 33-year-old made his World Cup debut against the Netherlands, scoring only nine runs. In the high-voltage game against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the Men in Green were folded on 191, losing their last eight wickets for just 36 runs.</p>
<p>Iftikhar, who is known for playing spinners well, was mauled by Kuldeep Yadav after scoring only four runs.&nbsp;In the next contest against <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-news/cwc-2023-live-updates-odi-world-cup-2023-live-score-updates-on-south-africa-vs-australia-semi-final-2/"><strong>Australia </strong></a>at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, the Green Army was chasing a mammoth target of 368 runs and Ahmed joined Mohammad Rizwan when his team required 136 runs in 15.4 overs. In the crunch situation, the Peshawar-born player failed to prove himself, losing his wicket to Adam Zampa after scoring 26 off 20.</p>
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<h3>7. Moeen Ali</h3>
<figure class="image align-center"><img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1696477713578_Moeen-Ali-and-Tom-Latham.jpeg" alt="Moeen Ali and Tom Latham" loading="lazy">
<figcaption>Moeen Ali and Tom Latham (Photo by Philip Brown/Popperfoto/Popperfoto via Getty Images)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>England ended their journey in this World Cup on a positive note with a convincing 93-run win against Pakistan, at the iconic Eden Gardens, in Kolkata. Throughout the competition, the English team looked timid and underconfident under Buttler’s captaincy which scripted their early exit from the tournament.&nbsp;Moeen Ali, a vital member of the squad, looked out of rhythm with both bat and ball. With the bat, he hoarded only 95 runs in six matches at a miserable average of 15.83. Now talking about his bowling performance, the 36-year-old got only five wickets at an economy of 5.81.</p>
<p>The veteran allrounder became a part of England’s playing XI in the crucial contest against Sri Lanka, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, in Bengaluru, after warming benches in the contests against Afghanistan and South Africa. On the batting-friendly surface, England lost their five batters at a score of 85. In the pressure situation, Ali’s responsibility was to support Ben Stokes in the middle but he also fell into Angelo Mathews’ trap after scoring only 15.&nbsp;</p>
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<h3>8. Shadab Khan</h3>
<figure class="image align-center"><img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1662574386112_Shadb-Khan.jpeg" alt="Shadab Khan" loading="lazy">
<figcaption>Shadab Khan. (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption>
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<p>Shadab Khan faced a lot of criticism for his terrible bowling performance in the tournament. On one hand, spinners such as Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Adam Zampa are taking advantage of turning pitches and delivering match-winning performances to their teams. At the same time, Shadab was ineffective with the ball, scalping only two wickets for Pakistan in six contests at a disastrous economy of 6.23.&nbsp;As a spin-bowling spearhead, he not only failed to deliver breakthroughs to his side but also leaked a lot of runs.</p>
<p>In the high-octane game at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Kuldeep wreaked havoc on Pakistan batters, while Shadab lacked confidence while defending the low score of 191 for his side. Bowling a four-over spell, he splurged 31 runs and went back wicketless in the game.&nbsp;The Green Army faced an embarrassing eight-wicket defeat at the hands of Afghanistan in Chennai. From the Afghan side, the 18-year-old Noor Ahmed claimed three scalps on his World Cup debut and won several hearts, while the experienced Pakistan leggie gave 49 runs in his eight overs and got no wickets in the second innings of the match.&nbsp;</p>
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<h3>9. Mark Wood</h3>
<figure class="image align-center"><img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1696942433952_Mark-Wood.jpeg" alt="Mark Wood" loading="lazy">
<figcaption>Mark Wood. (Photo Source: Gareth Copley/Getty Images)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>In IPL 2023, Mark Wood shone with the ball for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), grabbing 11 wickets in four matches at an economy of 8.12. Noting his excellent bowling display in the cash-rich league, cricket pundits were expecting the pacer to showcase his bowling mettle for his national side England in this World Cup.&nbsp;However, the speedster played seven contests in the competition and got only six wickets at a sub-par economy of 6.46.</p>
<p>The English side began their campaign with a nine-wicket hammering from New Zealand in Ahmedabad and in this humiliating defeat, Wood delivered an expensive spell.&nbsp;In his five overs, the Black Caps plundered 55 runs and didn’t give any wickets. His next horrendous performance came against<a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-appeal/odi-world-cup-2023-australia-vs-south-africa-semifinal-2-top-player-battles-to-watch-out-for/" title=" South Africa " target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> South Africa </strong></a>at the Wankhede Stadium, and this time, he gave away 76 runs in his seven overs and didn’t get any scalps.</p>
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<h3>10. Haris Rauf&nbsp;</h3>
<figure class="image align-center"><img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/1699107751004_Haris-Rauf.jpeg" alt="Haris Rauf" loading="lazy">
<figcaption>Haris Rauf. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>In the absence of Naseem Shah, the pace trio of Haris Rauf, Shaheen Afridi, and Hasan Ali was expected to do wonders with the ball. However, both Shaheen and Haris failed to trouble the opponents. In Pakistan’s 81-run win over the Netherlands, Rauf took a three-wicket haul and started the tournament with confidence.&nbsp;For the paceman, things went wrong for him against India in Ahmedabad.</p>
<p>Against the arch-rivals, he failed to pick up any wickets and gave away 43 runs. In his team’s 62-run defeat against the Aussies in Bengaluru, the 30-year-old recorded 1/97 figures in his nine-over spell. Both Aussie openers Mitchell Marsh and David Warner welcomed him by plundering 24 runs in his first over.&nbsp;Afghanistan routed Pakistan by eight wickets in Chennai and Rauf failed to daunt the opponents with his pace. At the end of the league round, Rauf also became the costliest bowler in a single World Cup edition, giving away 533 runs in his 79 overs.&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<h3>11. Mustafizur Rahman</h3>
<figure class="image align-center"><img src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/featureimage/2016/12/Mustafizur-Rahman.jpg" alt="Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh" loading="lazy">
<figcaption>Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh. (Photo by Kai Schwoerer/Getty Images)</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Mustafizur Rahman didn’t look efficient for Bangladesh in this World Cup. Despite possessing a lot of experience and being familiar with conditions, the paceman bagged only five wickets in eight matches of the tournament, at an expensive economy of 6.06. After registering 7.0-1-28-1 bowling figures in his team’s six-wicket win against the Afghan side, the pacer leaked 70 runs in his 10 overs against England.&nbsp;At the iconic Wankhede Stadium, the Bangla side lost to South Africa by 149 runs and Mustafizur failed as a fast-bowling lead.</p>
<p>On Mumbai’s batting track, the speedster got ripped apart by the Protea batters. In his nine overs, he neither got wickets nor became successful in containing the flow of runs.&nbsp;In his last game of the tournament against Australia, he failed to be impactful with the ball again. This time, the Aussie batters took him to the cleaners and looted 76 runs in his 9.4-over spell. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

The amazing league round of the Cricket World Cup 2023 concluded with the hosts India ending on the top of the points table with nine off nine wins and qualifying for the knockout stage comfortably. A

Cricket World Cup 2023: Worst XI of the League Round

In the dismal performances of these sides, their eminent players failed to display their best potential in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023.

Worst XI in ODI World Cup 2023: Check out the cricketers who consistently underperformed and failed to live up to expectations in the League Round of the 2023 Cricket World Cup.