England Sent Packing as Zadran, Omarzai Deliver CT25 Stunner

In a thrilling encounter at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Afghanistan scripted a historic 8-run victory over England, knocking them out of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Ibrahim Zadran's record-breaking 177 and Azmatullah Omarzai’s all-round brilliance turned the tide in Afghanistan’s favor, marking their second consecutive ICC ODI win against England.

Afghanistan’s Fighting Total

Opting to bat first, Afghanistan faced early trouble at 37 for 3. However, Zadran's majestic 146-ball 177—now the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history—led a remarkable recovery. Supported by skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi and later by Azmatullah Omarzai (41 off 31), Afghanistan powered to 325/7. The final 10 overs saw an explosive 113-run burst, punishing England’s struggling bowlers.

Jofra Archer (3/64) was England’s standout bowler, but injuries and misfields hurt their chances.

England’s Chase: Root’s Lone Fight

Chasing 326, England started confidently, but early wickets from Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi kept them under pressure. Joe Root, playing his first ODI century in nearly six years, scored a valiant 120. Despite Root’s brilliance and contributions from Jos Buttler (38) and Jamie Overton (24), England faltered in the final stretch.

Omarzai’s match-winning 5/58, including the crucial dismissal of Root, sealed England’s fate. Needing 17 off 14, England lost Overton and couldn’t recover, falling just short at 317 in 49.4 overs.

Afghanistan’s Rise in Global Cricket

This victory cements Afghanistan’s growing dominance in international cricket. With Zadran rewriting records and Omarzai stepping up under pressure, Afghanistan’s campaign gains momentum.

For England, this marks another disappointing ICC tournament exit, raising questions about their ODI strategy. As Afghanistan moves forward in CT25, their fearless cricket continues to inspire fans worldwide.

Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on Champions Trophy 2025!