To what extent was “The Great Game” responsible for the outbreak of the First and Second Anglo-Afghan Wars?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that “The Great Game” was responsible for the outbreak of the First and Second Anglo-Afghan Wars. Causes may predate the timeframe but they must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may refer to aspects of “The Great Game”, including the Russian fear of British encroachment, both commercial and military, into Central Asia; or the British fear of Russian encroachment on their imperial territory in India, suspicions which led to increasing distrust between the two powers; the second war was triggered by the Russians sending an uninvited mission to Kabul, and the Amir’s subsequent refusal to receive the British. In support, candidates may refer to the First Anglo-Afghan War, which was fought on behalf of the East India Company’s commercial interests in Central Asia. Other relevant factors may be addressed, for example the attempt by the British to install an Afghan king, Shuja Shah, whom they hoped would faithfully pursue their interests, an appointment which led to the outbreak of conflict, but with a focus on the issue in the question. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.