Ibrahim Zadran has etched his name in the annals of cricket history, becoming the first Afghan player to score a century in the Champions Trophy. The significant achievement came during Afghanistan's match against England at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on February 26, 2025. After Afghanistan's rocky start, losing three wickets for just 37 runs, Zadran showcased resilience and skill, guiding his team to recovery.
Scoring 109 runs off 114 balls, Zadran's innings included six fours and three sixes, marking his sixth career century. His performance was pivotal, as he built key partnerships, most prominently with captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, contributing to a 103-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Shahidi added 40 runs to the scoreboard before being dismissed, but Zadran continued to anchor the innings, eventually leading Afghanistan past the 200-run mark.
Before Zadran’s historical innings, the highest score recorded by any Afghan player in the Champions Trophy was 90 runs by Rahmat Shah during their debut match against South Africa. Zadran's feat not only places him as the leading century-maker for Afghanistan but also highlights the growing stature of Afghan cricket on the global stage.
"I am excited to contribute to my team and bring pride to my country with this achievement," Zadran expressed after his milestone innings. This win was particularly significant, as it was the first for Afghanistan after their qualification for the Champions Trophy. It showcases not only Zadran's exceptional talent but also the reliability he has built as one of Afghanistan's most consistent batsmen.
Following the early collapse at the hands of England's bowler Jofra Archer, who claimed three quick wickets, Zadran and Shahidi combined their efforts for the team. The young opener has been recognized for his outstanding batting average, currently maintaining over 48 across his ODI career.
The match was more than just survival for Afghanistan; it was also about asserting their capabilities on the international scene. Zadran's efforts have solidified his position among Afghanistan's cricketing elite, as he has now surpassed Mohammad Shahzad to claim the second-most centuries for the nation. Only Rahmanullah Gurbaz stands above him, with eight centuries to his name.
Through this performance, Zadran has demonstrated what can be achieved through hard work and dedication, especially after recovering from his injury setbacks. His return to form not only bodes well for his career but also inspires upcoming Afghan cricketers aspiring to follow in his footsteps.
With this century, Zadran has joined the ranks of players who have made significant marks through ICC tournaments. Before this, he had scored his first ODI century during the 2023 Cricket World Cup, indicating his potential as Afghanistan's key figure moving forward.
To conclude, Ibrahim Zadran's remarkable performance is not just about scoring runs but embodies the spirit and growth of Afghan cricket. His historic century serves as both inspiration and motivation for the national team and its fans. The cricketing world will undoubtedly be watching to see how Zadran continues to develop and contribute to Afghanistan's cricketing legacy.