Lahore, Feb 27 (V7N) – Afghanistan secured a thrilling victory over defending champions England, keeping their semi-final hopes alive in the ICC Champions Trophy.

Led by a sensational 177-run innings from Ibrahim Zadran, Afghanistan posted a formidable total of 325 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore on Wednesday (February 26). England fought hard but fell short, bowled out for 317 with just one ball remaining.

After electing to bat first, Afghanistan faced early trouble at 37 for 3, as Jofra Archer’s fiery pace dismantled the top order. But Zadran, rising like a phoenix, anchored the innings. He found valuable support from captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (40), Azmatullah Omarzai (44), and Mohammad Nabi (42), propelling Afghanistan to a competitive total of 325.

Zadran's 177-run knock is now the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history.

Chasing 326, England lost early wickets, including Phil Salt and Jamie Smith. Although Joe Root (120) fought back with partnerships alongside Harry Brook and Jos Buttler, his dismissal left England 39 runs short.

A late Archer-Overton stand created tension, but Omarzai (3 wickets) sealed England’s fate, securing Afghanistan's first-ever Champions Trophy victory.

Next Fixtures:

  • Afghanistan faces Australia on Friday (February 28).
  • England must win against South Africa on March 1 to stay in contention.

This victory echoes Afghanistan’s stunning 2023 World Cup win over England, proving once again that they are no longer underdogs but a rising force in international cricket.

END/RH/AJ