Afghanistan vs England: Champions Trophy 2025 Match Highlights
Afghanistan took the field against England at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, locking horns in what proved to be one of the most thrilling encounters of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The stakes were high for both teams as they battled for survival within Group B.
On February 26, 2025, Afghanistan found themselves under intense pressure, having lost to South Africa just prior to this match. Despite their past struggles, the team entered the game with renewed vigor, eager to capitalize on their recent progress. Their aim was clear: to keep their semi-final hopes alive against the formidable Three Lions.
Batting first after winning the toss, Afghanistan set out to post a competitive total. Led by opening batsman Ibrahim Zadran, who notched an astounding 177 runs off 146 balls, the team finished their innings at 325 for 7. Zadran’s innings included 12 fours and 6 sixes, and it marked the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history, breaking the record previously held by England's Ben Duckett.
Zadran's performance was instrumental, especially as he received strong support from Mohammad Nabi, who added 40 runs off just 24 balls. His aggressive approach, especially during the dying overs, propelled Afghanistan to their formidable total. "I just aimed to play my natural game and support my team by putting runs on the board," Zadran remarked after the innings.
England, facing this hefty target, started their innings with high aspirations but quickly found themselves struggling. After losing opener Phil Salt for just 12 runs and with the departure of Jamie Smith (9 runs), the pressure mounted as England slipped to 39 for 2 early on. With each wicket, the hopes of the English fans dimmed.
Rashid Khan's inclusion brought both excitement and nervousness, exemplified by his dramatic dismissal of Ben Duckett for 38. Duckett, who had made headlines with his record-breaking 165 against Australia earlier, was struck LBW following a successful review by Afghanistan. Rashid’s aggressive celebration and fiery intensity on the field highlighted his role as Afghanistan’s spearhead.
At this stage, Joe Root and Harry Brook were tasked with stabilizing the innings. Root played with poise and resilience, holding the innings together with well-timed boundaries, showcasing his skill and experience. Despite England's gradual recovery, the required run rate climbed, leading to heightened tension among their supporters.
Then came the pivotal moment: Jos Buttler, England's captain, found himself falling prey to Azmatullah Omarzai's bowling, leaving the English team reeling at 220 for 5. The dismissal was significant, halting any momentum England had managed to build. Root, still batting, had crossed his half-century but needed partners to maintain the chase.
It was now down to the remaining batsmen to mount what seemed like an impossible chase. At 228 for 5, England required 98 runs off 72 balls with Root anchored on the crease. The challenge was monumental, yet Root’s calming presence provided some hope for England’s dressing room, showcasing his rich experience under pressure.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan's bowlers were relentless. Mohammad Nabi proved to be effective with the ball, capturing key breakthroughs throughout the innings. He had earlier dismissed Harry Brook (25 runs) soon after the batting partnership had started to show promise. The spinners, led by Rashid Khan, continued to apply pressure with sharp turning deliveries and variations.
Notably, as England advanced, the scoreboard reflected their uphill battle: 228 for 5 after 38 overs with Root's score at 90. The atmosphere was electric as the crowd sensed the match nearing its climax.
The Gaddafi Stadium echoed with anticipation, displaying the rich cricketing heritage of Pakistan as the athletes showcased fierce competition. Despite England's difficulties, the potential for dramatic twists remained, keeping the audience engaged to the last balls bowled.
With less than one run per ball needed, England began to construct some momentum. Still, the Afghan bowlers were relentless, grabbing wickets at regular intervals. When Joe Root fell for 90, the hopes of the English fans began to fade, leaving them unsure about their chances.
Eventually, England fell short, finishing their innings at 298 runs, resulting in Afghanistan’s historic victory by 27 runs. The win marked another stunning chapter for Afghanistan, highlighting their impressive development as they continue to challenge established cricketing nations.
Reflecting on the match, Afghanistan's captain expressed equal parts excitement and humility, noting, "This victory is for our fans and our country. We showed great courage today against tough opposition." With this match behind them, Afghanistan set their eyes on their next opponents, determined to carry forward their winning momentum.
The clash not only handed Afghanistan the victory but also sent clear signals through the ICC Champions Trophy about the rising challenges across cricketing nations. Looking forward, both teams remain hopeful about their journeys through the competition, anticipating much more cricket excitement as the tournament progresses.