In a high-scoring thriller at Gaddafi Stadium, Afghanistan edged past England by 8 runs in the 8th match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Opting to bat first, Afghanistan put up an impressive total of 325/7, led by a sensational knock from Ibrahim Zadran.
Afghanistan’s innings: Ibrahim Zadran’s masterclass
Afghanistan’s innings got off to a slow start as Rahmanullah Gurbaz (6) fell early. However, Ibrahim Zadran took charge with a breathtaking 177 off 146 balls, smashing 12 fours and 6 sixes. Despite losing partners at regular intervals, he held the innings together. Contributions from Hashmatullah Shahidi (40), Azmatullah Omarzai (41 off 31), and Mohammad Nabi (40 off 24) propelled Afghanistan past the 300-run mark.
England’s bowlers struggled to contain the Afghan batters, with Jofra Archer being the standout performer, claiming 3 wickets for 64 runs in his 10 overs. Liam Livingstone provided crucial breakthroughs with his 2 wickets, while Jamie Overton and Adil Rashid picked up one wicket each.
England’s chase: Joe Root’s century in vain
Chasing 326, England suffered an early setback as Philip Salt (12) and Jamie Smith (9) departed cheaply. Joe Root anchored the innings with a magnificent 120 off 111 balls, keeping England in the hunt. Contributions from Ben Duckett (38), Jos Buttler (38), and Jamie Overton (32) kept England’s hopes alive.
However, Afghanistan’s bowlers maintained pressure, with Azmatullah Omarzai being the game-changer, claiming 5 wickets for 58 runs. Mohammad Nabi (2/57) provided vital support, while Rashid Khan and Gulbadin Naib chipped in with crucial wickets. England fell just short, getting bowled out for 317 in 49.5 overs.
Also READ: Highest individual scores in Champions Trophy – Ibrahim Zadran sets new benchmark
Here are the reactions of fans:
I am not surprised with Afghan’s win over England. Their cricketers are playing in every single cricket league happening in the world. Gaining all important experience and money! #AFGvENG #Cricket #CT25
— Chetan Sharma (@chetan0711) February 26, 2025
Afgan jalebi, bahi wahh ❤️💪#ChampionsTrophy2025 #AFGvENG
— Xavier Chachu (@xavier_chachu) February 26, 2025
It’s not over until it’s over….
Well done #Afghanistan you deserve it 💪. #AFGvENG— Pratham Kapoor (@ItsPrathamK) February 26, 2025
AFGHANISTAN is no more minnow ……
they have thrashed England again in an icc tournament #AFGvENG— Reply Guy (@ReplySoul) February 26, 2025
After host Pakistan and Bangladesh , England made exit from #ChampionsTrophy.
Today Afghanistan outclassed England in every department of game .#AFGvENG— Manoj Pandey (@mkpandey3) February 26, 2025
Afghanistan beat England in a thrilling contest
Score: https://t.co/bc2YfAX1Ad#cricket #AFGvENG #ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/wtPje0jXCQ
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 26, 2025
Afghanistan is a Nightmare for England in the ICC tournaments.#AFGvENG #AFGvsENG pic.twitter.com/ekC145zHff
— Dr Artistic Soul (@dr_artisticsoul) February 26, 2025
https://twitter.com/Murtazabilal__/status/1894800590724854185
Amazing from Afghanistan
First the T20 world cup final
Now this
Kudos to Jonathan trott
Incredible reallyEngland are a washed odi side since the 2019 odi World Cup#ChampionsTrophy2025 #iccmenschampionstrophy #AFGvENG
— Harshal (@Harshal90373928) February 26, 2025
#AFGvENG super victory @ACBofficials ..what a commitment and passion 💥
— Tanujnani 🌶️🌶️ (@tanujnani) February 26, 2025
Congratulations team afganistan fantastic win always shows their fight in big events, well played @ACBofficials #AFGvENG #iccmenschampionstrophy
— Vinu Nair (@Vinumonnair) February 26, 2025
