Match Overview
In a thrilling encounter at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on February 26, 2025, Afghanistan edged out England by eight runs in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, effectively eliminating England from the tournament. Afghanistan’s impressive total of 325/7 was anchored by a record-breaking 177 from Ibrahim Zadran. In response, England’s chase was spearheaded by Joe Root’s valiant 120, but the team ultimately fell short, managing 317 all out.
Afghanistan Batting Performance
Opting to bat first, Afghanistan faced early setbacks but were stabilized by Ibrahim Zadran’s monumental 177 off 146 balls, marking the highest individual score in the tournament’s history. His innings, laced with 21 boundaries and four sixes, was complemented by Azmatullah Omarzai’s brisk 41, propelling Afghanistan to a formidable total.
Afghanistan Batting Scorecard
Ibrahim Zadran: 177 runs (146 balls)
Azmatullah Omarzai: 41 runs (29 balls)
Mohammad Nabi: 28 runs (24 balls)
England Bowling Figures
Jofra Archer: 3 wickets for 64 runs
Chris Woakes: 2 wickets for 58 runs
Liam Livingstone: 1 wicket for 45 runs
England’s Chase
Chasing 326, England’s innings was anchored by Joe Root’s resilient 120 off 111 balls, his first ODI century since 2019. Despite his efforts, regular wickets and a lack of substantial partnerships hindered England’s progress. Azmatullah Omarzai’s exceptional bowling performance, claiming 5 wickets for 58 runs, was instrumental in restricting England to 317, sealing Afghanistan’s historic victory.
England Batting Scorecard
Joe Root: 120 runs (111 balls)
Ben Duckett: 38 runs (45 balls)
Jos Buttler: 38 runs (42 balls)
Afghanistan Bowling Figures
Azmatullah Omarzai: 5 wickets for 58 runs
Fazalhaq Farooqi: 2 wickets for 49 runs
Rashid Khan: 1 wicket for 62 runs
Key Takeaways from the Match
Historic Victory: Afghanistan’s triumph over England marks a significant milestone, showcasing their growing prowess on the international stage.
Standout Performances: Ibrahim Zadran’s record-breaking innings and Azmatullah Omarzai’s all-round brilliance were pivotal in Afghanistan’s success.
England’s Early Exit: The defeat results in England’s elimination from the tournament, prompting introspection regarding team strategy and leadership.
Match Summary
Afghanistan’s strategic batting, highlighted by Ibrahim Zadran’s monumental 177, set a challenging target for England. Despite Joe Root’s commendable century, England’s inability to build lasting partnerships and Azmatullah Omarzai’s decisive bowling led to their narrow eight-run defeat. This victory not only propels Afghanistan closer to a semi-final berth but also underscores their emergence as a formidable force in international cricket.
