Afghanistan secured a remarkable eight-run win over England in the ICC Champions Trophy, driven by a record-breaking century from Ibrahim Zadran and a crucial bowling performance in the final overs.
With this defeat, England are out of the race for the next phase of the tournament, reports UNB.
Zadran’s 177 off 146 balls set the foundation for Afghanistan’s imposing total of 325 for 7 at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
It was the highest-ever ODI score by an Afghan batter, surpassing his previous best of 162. His innings included 12 fours and six sixes, anchoring Afghanistan’s recovery after they lost three wickets for just 37 runs.
Supported by captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (40), Azmatullah Omarzai (41 off 31), and Mohammad Nabi (40 off 24), Afghanistan built a competitive total.
Jofra Archer was England’s most effective bowler, taking 3 for 64, while Liam Livingstone picked up two wickets.
Chasing 326, England relied on Joe Root, who played an innings of 120 off 111 balls.
However, regular wickets at crucial moments derailed their chase. Afghanistan’s bowlers, led by Omarzai’s 5 for 58, held their nerve under pressure. Nabi and Rashid Khan also chipped in with key breakthroughs.
Despite late resistance from Jamie Overton (32) and Jofra Archer (14), England fell short, bowled out for 317 in 49.5 overs. The victory marks Afghanistan’s first-ever win over England in an ICC tournament and keeps their hopes alive in the Champions Trophy.
Bd-pratidin English/ Afia
