Explore the inspiring journey of Ibrahim Zadran, whose stunning 177 propelled Afghanistan to a groundbreaking Champions Trophy win against England, reshaping the sport’s narrative.
Introduction:
Afghanistan delivered one of the most dramatic moments in their cricketing history as they knocked England out of the Champions Trophy 2025 in a breathtaking finish in Lahore. In a game that swung wildly from one side to the other, Ibrahim Zadran’s record-breaking 177 and Azmatullah Omarzai’s all-round brilliance proved too much for England, who fell agonizingly short by just eight runs.
It was a humiliating loss for England, reminding them of their World Cup woes. Despite Joe Root’s magnificent 120, England’s batting collapsed at key moments to leave their title aspirations in shambles. See also: Josh Inglis Leads Australia to Record Chase
Afghanistan’s fairy-tale journey meanwhile continues as they gear up to face Australia in a semi-final battle, already having made an indelible mark on Champions Trophy history.
Afghanistan Batting: Ibrahim Zadran’s Masterpiece Sets the Stage
Choosing to bat first, Afghanistan were in trouble early on. Jofra Archer’s blistering new-ball spell tore apart the top order, leaving them at 37 for 3 inside the first nine overs. England seemed set to steamroll their opponents, but then the tide turned.
Zadran and Shahidi Steady the Ship
Ibrahim Zadran, calm and composed, dug in alongside captain Hashmatullah Shahidi. Their 103-run partnership not only rescued Afghanistan but also built the foundation for a counterattack. Shahidi’s gritty 45 ensured stability, but it was Zadran who took center stage. See also: Atal and Omarzai Shine but Afghanistan’s Hopes Washed Away
Zadran’s Controlled Explosion
Reached his fifty off 65 balls before shifting gears. Brought up his century in just 41 more deliveries. Rushed along even more, blasting at a near 200 strike rate in the latter stages.
With cameos late on by Omarzai (41 off 31) and Mohammad Nabi (a scorching 24 off 14), Afghanistan drove their way to 326 for 9—a score that had looked improbable after their dismal start.
Zadran’s 177 was the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history, eclipsing Ben Duckett’s 165 against Australia just a few days ago.
England’s Chase: Root’s Resistance and the Final Collapse
Early Setbacks Put England on the Backfoot. Chasing 327, England required a good start, but it was anything but. Phil Salt got out cheaply, bowled by Omarzai while trying an ambitious pull shot. Jamie Smith, who was promoted to No. 3, played a wild charge at Nabi and was stumped for a duck. At 28 for 2, England were already in trouble, and the pressure grew.
Root Holds the Innings Together
Joe Root, who had not scored an ODI hundred in almost five years, finally got into his groove. Along with Duckett, he started to rebuild, as they had done against Australia. But England’s tendency to lose wickets at critical times came back to haunt them. Duckett (37) was run out after a poor shot against Rashid Khan.
Harry Brook was in sublime touch but gave away his wicket
Jos Buttler had flash glimpses of form but died for 38, victimized by the pace of Omarzai.
While wickets fell around him, Root kept England in the game. He got to his hundred in 98 balls; his inning was characterized by classy strokeplay and clever placement. But as the last bit remained, tiredness crept in.
The Final Drama: England Fall Short
With 58 required from the final six overs, Root tried a daring ramp shot but was caught behind off a quick Omarzai ball. His fall exposed England’s tail, and though Craig Overton played a valiant 32 off 28 balls, Afghanistan kept their cool.
Archer attempted to guide England home but skied a catch to Nabi in the deep.
With eight needed off two balls, Adil Rashid swung hard but only found Ibrahim Zadran at long-on, sealing England’s fate.
Key Takeaways: England’s Downfall, Afghanistan’s Heroics
Zadran’s Batting Brilliance
Ibrahim Zadran’s 177 off 146 balls will go down as one of the greatest ODI innings. His ability to absorb pressure early on and then accelerate showcased his maturity and skill.
Omarzai’s Match-Winning All-Around Display
Azmatullah Omarzai played a crucial role. 41 off 31 deliveries to take Afghanistan over 300.
5 wickets, including the crucial ones of Root and Buttler. His contribution in both innings proved decisive for Afghanistan’s win.
England’s Instability
Captaincy Crisis: Jos Buttler’s form and captaincy are still in the spotlight.
Bowling Depth Crisis: Mark Wood’s injuries laid bare England’s paucity of fast bowlers.
Middle-Order Collapse: Shot selection went wrong as they lost a game they ought to have won.
Afghanistan’s Perseverance
This victory was not only about personal brilliance but also about faith. From 37 for 3 to 326, and then keeping their cool in the last overs, Afghanistan showed incredible poise. They now look ahead with hopes of making it to their first ICC final.
What’s Next?
Afghanistan: Theirs is a fairytale ride that continues as they face Australia in a high-pressure semi-final.
England: Another ICC event ends in disappointment, and some serious questions about their future are raised.