Lahore, February 25, 2025 – Afghanistan and England are set to face off in Match 8 of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on February 26 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. With both teams facing elimination, this encounter is expected to be a high-stakes battle.
The 2025 edition of the ICC Champions Trophy has already produced some surprises, with India and New Zealand securing their semifinal berths from Group A. However, Group B remains wide open, and Afghanistan’s clash with England will be crucial in determining the semifinalists. With both teams suffering losses in their opening fixtures, another defeat would almost certainly end their tournament hopes.
Afghanistan’s first match saw them struggle against South Africa’s formidable bowling attack, leading to a comprehensive defeat. Meanwhile, England put up a massive total against Australia, thanks to Ben Duckett’s explosive 165 and Joe Root’s classy innings, but their bowling faltered as they failed to defend their score. When these two teams last met in an ICC ODI event, it was during the 2023 World Cup in India, where Afghanistan stunned England with a famous victory. That historic win will give Afghanistan confidence that they can repeat the feat, especially given England’s struggles against spin in their recent series against India.
England’s batting remains their strong suit, with Duckett and Root showing their prowess in subcontinental conditions. However, their middle order remains inconsistent, with Harry Brook yet to find form. Their bowling attack, apart from Adil Rashid, failed to make an impact, and with Brydon Carse ruled out of the tournament, the inclusion of Rehan Ahmed could provide much-needed variation.
Afghanistan, on the other hand, must improve their bowling after conceding too many runs in their opening match. Fazalhaq Farooqi needs better support with the new ball, and Afghanistan may look to find an effective partner akin to Naveen-ul-Haq. Their batting also needs to fire, particularly openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, who play a vital role in setting up competitive totals. The spin trio of Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, and Mohammad Nabi will be pivotal, but the batters must step up if Afghanistan hopes to stay in the tournament.
Both Afghanistan and England will be eager to bounce back from their disappointing starts, and this match provides an opportunity to revive their campaigns. With so much at stake, who will rise to the occasion and keep their Champions Trophy dreams alive?