Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan register record-breaking win against England

In a high-octane encounter at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Afghanistan pulled off a stunning 8-run victory over England in the 8th match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The match, played under lights, was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Afghanistan posting a formidable total of 325/7, thanks to a masterclass from Ibrahim Zadran, and then holding their nerve to defend it against a strong English batting lineup.

Ibrahim Zadran Shines Bright in England vs Afghanistan Champions Trophy Match

Afghanistan, electing to bat first, got off to a shaky start, losing Rahmanullah Gurbaz (6) and Sediqullah Atal (4) early to Jofra Archer’s fiery spell. However, Ibrahim Zadran emerged as the anchor of the innings, playing a breathtaking knock of 177 off 146 balls. His innings, laced with 12 fours and 6 sixes, was a blend of elegance and power, as he single-handedly carried Afghanistan to a commanding total.

Zadran found support from Hashmatullah Shahidi (40) and Azmatullah Omarzai (41), but it was his 100-run partnership with Mohammad Nabi (40 off 24 balls) in the death overs that propelled Afghanistan past the 300-run mark. England’s bowlers, led by Archer (3/64), struggled to contain the Afghan batters, especially in the final overs.

England’s Chase: Root’s Heroics Fall Short

Chasing 326, England started cautiously but lost Phil Salt (12) and Jamie Smith (9) early. Ben Duckett (38) and Joe Root steadied the ship with a 68-run partnership, but Duckett’s dismissal triggered a mini-collapse. Root, however, stood tall, scoring a magnificent 120 off 111 balls, keeping England in the hunt. Jos Buttler (38) and Jamie Overton (32) provided valuable support, but Afghanistan’s bowlers kept chipping away with crucial wickets.

Azmatullah Omarzai was the star with the ball, claiming a five-wicket haul (5/58), including the key wicket of Root in the 46th over. Despite a late flourish from Jofra Archer (14 off 8), England fell short by 8 runs, finishing at 317 in 49.5 overs.