4 Times When Teams Forfeited World Cup Games

2. England against Zimbabwe in 2003

Image Source : Sportskeeda

During the 2003 World Cup, England was placed in Group A with other formidable teams like Australia, India and Pakistan. Everyone expected that the battle for the Super Sixers will leave out one of the three hosts  Zimbabwe, Namibia and Netherlands.

England had their first game against Zimbabwe in Harare. But they decided to forfeit the game because of moral, political and contractual aspects. The England team was pretty clear not to tour Zimbabwe before the mega event.

As a result British Prime Minister Tony Blair wanted the fixture to be shifted to a different venue. But unfortunately that wasn’t possible. Hence Blair ordered the team to forfeit the game. As a result of the walkover, England conceded four points.

Before the final league game, England and Zimbabwe were leveled on 12 points. But the Brits were ahead because of net run rate. Zimbabwe faced Pakistan, who were also in the race with 8 points and needed a big win to go past England’s NRR.

However in the 38-over-a-side game, Pakistan were 73/4 after 14 overs before a complete washout. As a result with 14 points, Zimbabwe joined Australia and India from Group A. England missed out the semi-final spot, ending with 12 points, two points behind Zimbabwe.