Wed Feb 26 11:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Afghanistan Post 326 Against England in Thrilling ICC Champions Trophy Clash

**Lahore, Pakistan:** Ibrahim Zadran’s historic century propelled Afghanistan to a challenging 326/7 against England in their Group B encounter at the Gaddafi Stadium in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Winning the toss and electing to bat, Afghanistan endured a shaky start, losing three early wickets. However, Zadran’s magnificent 177 (146 balls, 12 fours, 6 sixes) – the first century by an Afghan batsman in a Champions Trophy – completely changed the momentum. He was ably supported by Azmatullah Omarzai (41), Hashmatullah Shahidi (40), and Mohammad Nabi (40). Jofra Archer was the pick of the England bowlers, taking 3 wickets. Liam Livingstone claimed 2, while Jamie Overton and Adil Rashid each took one.

The match, played under partly cloudy skies with a 51% chance of rain, saw Afghanistan recover from a precarious 37/3 to post a formidable total on a pitch described as firm with good grass cover, promising a good batting surface. The boundary dimensions are 67 meters on the offside, 70 meters on the leg side, and 76 meters from the ground. Average scores in the previous five matches at this venue have exceeded 300 runs.

This victory puts Afghanistan in a strong position to advance, but their qualification hinges on the outcome of their remaining matches against England and Australia. Similarly, England needs to win its remaining matches against Afghanistan and South Africa to secure a semi-final spot. The results of these matches will significantly impact the tournament’s semi-final lineup.

**Playing XIs:**

**England:** Phil Salt, Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith (wk), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (c), Liam Livingstone, Jofra Archer, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood.

**Afghanistan:** Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sadidullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi.

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