AFG vs ENG Review: Afghanistan stun England to knock them out
Afghanistan registered a thrilling eight-run win against England to stay afloat in the Champions Trophy 2025 on Wednesday, February 26, at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Ibrahim Zadran was the star of the show for Afghanistan as his stunning 177 off 146 balls helped the Blue Tigers post a challenging total of 325/7 on the board after Hashmatullah Shahidi won the toss and opted to bat first. England took three wickets inside the first powerplay before Shahidi and Zadran consolidated commendably.
Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi also played crucial cameos to support Zadran, who smashed his sixth ODI century. Jofra Archer was the pick of the bowlers for England as he finished with figures of 3/64 in 10 overs.
In reply, England lost the wickets of Phil Salt and Jamie Smith early. However, Ben Duckett and Joe Root steadied the ship. After Duckett departed for 38, Harry Brook tried to take the attack to the Afghan bowlers. However, he was dismissed for a 21-ball 25. Jos Buttler and Root gave England hope with an 83-run partnership before the former departed for 38.
Root slammed his first century in ODI cricket in almost five years and stood in the way of a famous win for the Blue Tigers. However, Omarzai ended his stay after he scored 120 to put Afghanistan in a position of strength. The all-rounder finished with a five-for as England were bowled out for 317 in 49.5 overs.
Top performers
Ibrahim Zadran – 177 off 146 balls
Ibrahim Zadran missed out in the game against South Africa but he showcased his class versus the Three Lions. He hit some exquisite shots en route to his sixth ODI ton. Zadran’s 177 came off just 146 deliveries as he hit 12 fours and six sixes.
Azmatullah Omarzai – 5/58
Azmatullah Omarzai gave Afghanistan their first breakthrough when he dismissed Phil Salt in the fourth over. He went on to dismiss Joe Root, Jos Buttler, Jamie Overton, and Adil Rashid to pick up his maiden five-for in international cricket. Omarzai finished with figures of 5/58 in 9.5 overs.
What’s next for the two teams?
Afghanistan will face Australia at the Gaddafi Stadium on Friday, February 28. Meanwhile, England, who have been knocked out of the competition, will lock horns with South Africa at the National Stadium in Karachi on Saturday, March 1.
