England suffered a heartbreaking exit from the Champions Trophy after a dramatic eight-run defeat to Afghanistan in Lahore. Following their opening loss to Australia, England initially put their struggles down to tricky conditions, but their hopes and likely Jos Buttler’s captaincy were ended in a match where they were both outplayed and outwilled.
Despite a valiant century from Joe Root, England’s pursuit of 326 fell short, with Azmatullah Omarzai sealing the win with a five-wicket haul. England’s batting-heavy lineup, further weakened by Mark Wood’s knee injury, struggled against a well-drilled Afghan side.
Afghanistan’s innings was anchored by a superb 177 from Ibrahim Zadran, who rescued his team from 37 for three. Contributions from Azmatullah (41) and Mohammad Nabi (41) propelled them to a formidable 326 for seven. England’s bowlers faltered in the latter stages, with Jofra Archer, after a strong start, conceding heavily in his final overs.
England’s response was marred by poor shot selection. Phil Salt fell for 12 attempting an ill-advised stroke, while Jamie Smith, promoted to No. 3, was out playing an aggressive shot to his first ball. Ben Duckett (38) and Harry Brook also failed to convert starts, falling to spin.
Buttler joined Root at 133 for four, knowing his innings could determine his future as captain. He built a steady partnership with Root, but after making 38, his top-edged pull proved costly. England’s hopes rested on Root, but as wickets fell around him, the target slipped out of reach.
A crucial 54-run stand between Root and Jamie Overton kept England in the hunt, but once both departed, the tail was left with too much to do. Afghanistan, having already beaten England in the 2023 World Cup, held their nerve to secure another historic victory.
While Zadran’s innings was the highlight, Afghanistan’s all-rounders played a crucial role. Nabi, with his wealth of experience, smashed 23 runs off Root in the 47th over, forming a game-changing partnership with Zadran.
Afghanistan’s win keeps their semi-final hopes alive ahead of their clash with Australia. England, meanwhile, travel to Karachi to face South Africa with only pride at stake, as another period of introspection begins.
