Champions Trophy: England Knocked Out After Defeat to Afghanistan

Kathmandu — England has been eliminated from the 2025 Champions Trophy after a shocking 8-run defeat to Afghanistan.

Chasing a target of 326 runs, England was bowled out for 317 in 49.5 overs, marking Afghanistan’s second ODI victory over England. Their first win came two years ago during the ODI World Cup in India.

Joe Root top-scored for England with 120 runs, but it wasn’t enough to secure a victory. Azmatullah Omarzai was the standout bowler for Afghanistan, taking 5 wickets.

Earlier, after winning the toss and choosing to bat first at the Gaddafi International Cricket Stadium in Lahore, Afghanistan posted a total of 325/7 in 50 overs. Ibrahim Zadran starred with the bat, scoring a brilliant 177 runs.

For England, Jofra Archer took 3 wickets, while Liam Livingstone grabbed 2 wickets. This was England’s second consecutive defeat, leading to their exit from the tournament. They had previously lost to Australia.

With this win, Afghanistan keeps their semifinal hopes alive. To secure a spot in the semifinals, they must defeat Australia in their next match.

Meanwhile, in today’s Champions Trophy fixture, Pakistan faces Bangladesh at the Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium, with the match set to begin at 2:45 PM local time.