Afghanistan Stuns England in Champions Trophy 2025 Thriller, Knocks Them Out
In an electrifying clash at the Champions Trophy 2025, Afghanistan pulled off a sensational upset by defeating England by 8 runs, effectively ending Jos Buttler and his team’s journey in the tournament. This thrilling encounter has kept Afghanistan’s hopes alive for a semifinal spot, while England now heads home after a disappointing campaign.
Afghanistan’s Batting Fireworks
Electing to bat first after winning the toss in Lahore, Afghanistan faced early setbacks. Opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz managed only 6 runs, while Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi couldn’t make a significant impact either, leaving the team struggling at 37 for 3. However, Ibrahim Zadran rose to the occasion, stitching together a crucial partnership with skipper Shahidi, who scored a steady 40. Zadran unleashed a batting masterclass, hammering the English bowlers with aggressive strokeplay. He reached his century off just 106 balls and didn’t stop there, going on to score a breathtaking 177 runs off 146 deliveries—one of the highest individual scores in Champions Trophy history. His knock was laced with 12 fours and 6 towering sixes. Late fireworks from Mohammad Nabi, who smashed 40 off 24 balls, propelled Afghanistan to a formidable 325 for 7 in their 50 overs.
England’s Rocky Chase
Chasing 326, England stumbled early. Phil Salt fell for 12, followed by Jamie Smith (9) and Harry Brook (25), both dismissed by the crafty Mohammad Nabi. Ben Duckett showed promise with 38 but couldn’t convert, falling to Rashid Khan’s spin. Joe Root and captain Jos Buttler then steadied the ship with an 83-run stand for the fifth wicket. However, Buttler’s departure for 38 at a crucial juncture shifted the momentum. Root, alongside Jamie Overton, kept England in the hunt. The veteran batter notched up a brilliant 120 off 111 balls—his first ODI ton in nearly five years—but his dismissal in the 45th over turned the tide. Overton’s exit in the 48th over sealed England’s fate as they were bowled out for 317, falling agonizingly short.
Afghan Heroes Shine
While Zadran’s batting heroics set the stage, Afghanistan’s bowlers delivered the knockout punch. Azmatullah Omarzai was the star with the ball, wreaking havoc to claim a sensational five-wicket haul. Supported by Nabi and Rashid Khan, the Afghan attack held their nerve to defend the total and script a historic victory.
What’s Next?
This defeat marks the end of England’s Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, leaving fans and analysts stunned. For Afghanistan, the win is a massive boost, keeping their semifinal dreams alive as they continue to defy expectations on the global stage. Cricket enthusiasts are now eagerly awaiting their next move in this gripping tournament.
Afghanistan Stuns England in Champions Trophy 2025 Thriller, Knocks Them Out
