England crashes out of 2025 Champions Trophy after defeat to Afghanistan

KATHMANDU: England has been eliminated from the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy after a shocking eight-run defeat to Afghanistan on Wednesday.

Chasing a formidable target of 326, England fell short, getting bowled out for 317 in 49.5 overs.

This marks Afghanistan’s second-ever ODI victory over England, having previously defeated them in the 2023 World Cup.

Ibrahim Zadran’s Record-Breaking Knock

Batting first at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Afghanistan posted a strong total of 325/7 in 50 overs. Opener Ibrahim Zadran starred with a historic 177 off 146 balls, smashing 12 fours and 6 sixes.

His innings set a new record for the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history, surpassing England’s Ben Duckett’s 165 against Australia.

Zadran anchored key partnerships, including a 103-run stand with captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (40), a 72-run stand with Azmatullah Omarzai (41), and a crucial 111-run stand with Mohammad Nabi (40).

For England, Jofra Archer took 3 wickets, while Liam Livingstone picked up 2.

England Falls Short Despite Root’s Century

In response, England’s Joe Root led the fightback with a magnificent 120 off 111 balls, bringing up his 17th ODI century in 98 deliveries. However, lack of support from other batters proved costly.

Captain Root and Ben Duckett (38) added stability, while Harry Brook (25) and Jamie Overton (32) chipped in, but Afghanistan’s bowling attack kept England in check.

Afghanistan’s hero with the ball was Azmatullah Omarzai, who claimed 5 wickets for 58 runs in 9.5 overs. Mohammad Nabi picked up 2, while Fazalhaq Farooqi, Gulbadin Naib, and Rashid Khan took one each.

England’s Early Exit, Afghanistan Eyes Semis

With two consecutive losses, England is out of the tournament, having also suffered a defeat to Australia in their opening match.

Afghanistan, on the other hand, remains in contention for the semifinals but must beat Australia in their final group match on Friday to secure qualification.