Afghanistan secured a stunning eight-run victory over England in Lahore on Wednesday, keeping their hopes alive in Group B of the Champions Trophy.
England initially dominated with the ball, reducing Afghanistan to 37 for three. However, opener Ibrahim Zadran led a remarkable comeback with a career-best 177 off 146 balls, including 12 fours and six sixes.
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Afghanistan posted a formidable total of 325 for seven. England’s chase became increasingly difficult as Afghan bowlers consistently took wickets, despite Joe Root’s century.
The loss marked England’s fifth consecutive defeat since their India tour, sixth overall and eliminated them from the Champions Trophy.
“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 #AFGvENG #ChampionsTrophy2025,” Ravi Shastri, former India head coach, posted on social media.
England’s white-ball cricket performance has declined since winning the T20 World Cup in 2022. The team failed to advance beyond the league stage in both the 2023 ODI World Cup and last year’s T20 World Cup.
“Brilliant from Afghanistan .. Throughly 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,” Michael Vaughan, former England captain, wrote on X.
