Joe Root returned to form, scoring his 17th One-Day International (ODI) century during England's ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match against Afghanistan, revitalizing the team's prospects at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
On February 26, 2025, England faced the monumental task of chasing down 326 runs set by Afghanistan, needing to secure victory to keep their semi-final hopes alive. Under immense pressure, Root played a pivotal innings, scoring 100 runs off 98 balls and hitting 10 boundaries. His century marks his first ODI ton since the 2019 World Cup, where he had also achieved this feat against the West Indies.
Earlier, Afghanistan's innings was led by Ibrahim Zadran, who made history with an impressive 177 runs, becoming the highest individual scorer ever recorded in the Champions Trophy. Zadran's knock, comprising 12 fours and 6 sixes, was pivotal to Afghanistan posting 325 runs for 7 wickets. His innings not only set the record but also established him as the first Afghanistan cricketer to claim centuries in both the ODI World Cup and the Champions Trophy events.
Following Zadran's outstanding performance, England found themselves faltering and at one stage reduced to 133 for 4, struggling to regain their footing. Key players Ben Duckett and Jos Buttler contributed with scores of 38 each, but their inability to convert starts put greater emphasis on Root to lead the charge. "Root played yet another traditional ODI knock," commended Sky Sports, reflecting on the English batter's poise under pressure.
With captivating watchfulness, Root steadied the innings, securing his century off 98 deliveries with six overs remaining. His innings was marked by deft strokes and strategic shot selection, allowing him to navigate Afghanistan's aggressive bowling attack. Notably, this performance aligned him with cricketing legends, tying him with Brian Lara for the most centuries by any player across all formats of international cricket.
Root's return to form is not only significant for him personally but is also monumental for the England team, which had come under scrutiny following their defeat to Australia. "This was Root’s first century since the ODI World Cup 2019," noted the BBC. His ability to perform on such grand stages is what England has been missing since their last campaign.
Despite his heroics, England still faced challenges, necessitating aggressive play to clinch victory against Afghanistan. Root's inning not only showcased his skills but also illustrated the pressure cooker environment of championship cricket—where any misstep could take the team out of contention.
While Root’s efforts were substantial, the match rekindled the excitement around the Champions Trophy, with teams vying to secure their semifinal positions. Provided England can build on this performance, hopes remain for their advancement within the tournament. Their ability to bounce back after dire situations will be tested as the tournament progresses.
With both players, Root and Zadran, leading their respective teams through memorable innings, the match highlighted the talent flourishing within international cricket. Root's innings may well be the turning point for England, potentially spearheading them back to form as they move through the tournament.
Looking ahead, all eyes will be on how Root can sustain his form and how England can leverage this momentum to pursue their title defense. Coach and team management will be encouraged by Root’s brilliance as they address the fine margins of high-stakes competition.
The outcome of this match is pivotal not just for England’s immediate future but also for the legacy of its players, particularly for its stalwart captain, Joe Root. A victory against Afghanistan could usher them closer to the semi-final stage, where not just dreams but also reputations are at stake.