Afghanistan secured a thrilling eight-run victory over England on Wednesday, February 26, knocking the defending champions out of the Champions Trophy 2025 and keeping their own semi-final hopes alive. The electrifying contest at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore saw outstanding performances from Ibrahim Zadran and Azmatullah Omarzai, making it a historic night for the Blue Tigers.
After winning the toss, Afghanistan’s captain Hashmatullah Shahidi opted to bat first. However, England’s Jofra Archer wreaked havoc early on, dismissing Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sediqullah Atal, and Rahmat Shah with the new ball. Despite the early setbacks, Afghanistan found stability as Shahidi and Zadran stitched together a crucial 103-run partnership off 124 deliveries, reviving Afghan hopes. Shahidi’s dismissal for 40 brought Omarzai to the crease, and he wasted no time in taking on the English attack, smashing a quickfire 41 off 31 balls. Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi also played a vital cameo, hammering 40 off just 24 deliveries.
The night, however, belonged to Zadran, who dominated England’s bowling attack with a magnificent 177 off 146 balls. His brilliant knock, featuring impeccable strokeplay, helped Afghanistan post a formidable total of 325/7. Archer was England’s standout bowler, finishing with figures of 3/64 in his 10-over spell.
Chasing 326, England’s innings had a shaky start as Omarzai struck in the fourth over to remove Phil Salt. Mohammad Nabi soon sent Jamie Smith back to the pavilion in the seventh over, leaving England in trouble. A fighting 68-run partnership between Ben Duckett and Joe Root kept England’s hopes alive, but Afghanistan remained relentless. Harry Brook played a brisk knock before departing, leaving Root and captain Jos Buttler to take charge.
Root and Buttler put together a crucial 83-run stand from 91 balls, shifting the momentum in England’s favor. Just when it seemed like the Three Lions were taking control, Omarzai delivered a game-changing breakthrough in the 37th over by dismissing Buttler. Liam Livingstone fell soon after, increasing the pressure on England. Root, determined to carry his team through, notched up a sensational 120 off 111 balls. However, his resistance ended when Omarzai struck again, dealing a massive blow to England’s chances.
With Root gone, Jamie Overton fought valiantly, scoring 32 runs, but his efforts weren’t enough. Afghanistan’s bowlers held their nerve in the final overs, eventually bowling England out for 317 in 49.5 overs.
The victory sparked celebrations among the Afghan players and fans, as they kept their tournament dreams alive while eliminating the reigning champions from the competition.
