• Afghanistan have knocked England out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

  • Ibrahim Zadran was named Player of the Match for his record-breaking ton.

Fans go berserk as Afghanistan survive Joe Root scare to knock England out of Champions Trophy 2025
Afghanistan survive Joe Root scare to shock England in Champions Trophy 2025 (PC: X)

Table of Contents

In a high-scoring thriller at Gaddafi Stadium, Afghanistan edged past England by 8 runs in the 8th match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Opting to bat first, Afghanistan put up an impressive total of 325/7, led by a sensational knock from Ibrahim Zadran.

Afghanistan’s innings: Ibrahim Zadran’s masterclass

Afghanistan’s innings got off to a slow start as Rahmanullah Gurbaz (6) fell early. However, Ibrahim Zadran took charge with a breathtaking 177 off 146 balls, smashing 12 fours and 6 sixes. Despite losing partners at regular intervals, he held the innings together. Contributions from Hashmatullah Shahidi (40), Azmatullah Omarzai (41 off 31), and Mohammad Nabi (40 off 24) propelled Afghanistan past the 300-run mark.

England’s bowlers struggled to contain the Afghan batters, with Jofra Archer being the standout performer, claiming 3 wickets for 64 runs in his 10 overs. Liam Livingstone provided crucial breakthroughs with his 2 wickets, while Jamie Overton and Adil Rashid picked up one wicket each.

England’s chase: Joe Root’s century in vain

Chasing 326, England suffered an early setback as Philip Salt (12) and Jamie Smith (9) departed cheaply. Joe Root anchored the innings with a magnificent 120 off 111 balls, keeping England in the hunt. Contributions from Ben Duckett (38), Jos Buttler (38), and Jamie Overton (32) kept England’s hopes alive.

However, Afghanistan’s bowlers maintained pressure, with Azmatullah Omarzai being the game-changer, claiming 5 wickets for 58 runs. Mohammad Nabi (2/57) provided vital support, while Rashid Khan and Gulbadin Naib chipped in with crucial wickets. England fell just short, getting bowled out for 317 in 49.5 overs.

Also READ: Highest individual scores in Champions Trophy – Ibrahim Zadran sets new benchmark

Here are the reactions of fans:

https://twitter.com/Murtazabilal__/status/1894800590724854185

Also WATCH: Adil Rashid grabs an astonishing catch to dismiss Rahmat Shah in Champions Trophy 2025

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ANIRUDH SINGH
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