NEW DELHI: Afghanistan eliminated England from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 after defeating them by eight runs in an exciting encounter played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The game was an emotional rollercoaster. Afghanistan initially struggled but eventually showcased a superb batting performance led by Ibrahim Zadran and a stellar bowling display by Azmatullah Omarzai.
Afghanistan’s early struggles and Zadran’s heroics
Afghanistan had a rough start, losing three wickets for a mere 37 runs during the powerplay. Jofra Archer’s fiery spell put Afghanistan on the back foot, but Ibrahim Zadran’s resilience turned the tide.
Zadran scored 177 off 146 balls, the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history, with a brilliant innings that included 12 fours and 6 sixes. The inning was stabilized by his partnership with captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, who scored 40 runs. Afghanistan reached 325 for 7 in 50 overs thanks to contributions from Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi.
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England’s chase and Root’s efforts
Chasing a target of 326, England’s innings saw early setbacks with the dismissals of Phil Salt and Jamie Smith. Joe Root, however, anchored the innings with a brilliant century, scoring 120 off 111 balls. Root’s partnerships with Ben Duckett and Jos Buttler kept England in the hunt, but Afghanistan’s bowlers held their nerve. The outstanding bowling performance of Azmatullah Omarzai, who took five wickets for 58 runs, was crucial in keeping England to 317 all out.
Omarzai’s bowling was a game-changer for Afghanistan. He made significant breakthroughs at critical times by dismissing important players like Jos Buttler, Phil Salt, and Joe Root. His skill as a bowler was demonstrated by his ability to remain composed and deliver under pressure.
Cricketers’ reactions
Sachin Tendulkar: “Afghanistan’s steady and consistent rise in international cricket has been inspiring! You can’t term their wins as upsets any more, they’ve made this a habit now. A superb century by Ibrahim Zadran and a wonderful five-for by Azmatullah Omarzai sealed another memorable win for Afghanistan. Well played!”
Ravi Shastri: “Afghanistan. You guys rock. Kammaaal Kaardi. For England. Take playing in the Subcontinent seriously with no excuses. Only then you will be recognised as a Team that can TRAVEL.”
Ajay Jadeja: “Afghanistan fans deserve this victory as they are the most passionate & humble cricket fans around the world.”
Shoaib Akhtar: “Afghanistan have shown their mettle once again. They have the potential to go beyond the semi-final stage. Well done, boys!”
Michael Vaughan: “Brilliant from Afghanistan. Thoroughly deserved win. England just haven’t played good enough white ball cricket for a couple of years. This result isn’t a surprise in these conditions.”
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Afghanistan’s victory over England in the CT 2025 was a testament to their growing prowess in international cricket. Zadran’s record-breaking innings and Omarzai’s brilliant bowling performance were the highlights of a match that will be remembered for years to come. With this win, Afghanistan kept their semi-final hopes alive, while England faced an early exit from the tournament.
