WATCH: Massive celebrations break out in streets of Afghanistan after win over England in Champions Trophy

Afghanistan cricket team beat England by eight runs to knock Jos Buttler’s men out of Champions Trophy 2025. It was a close match that saw the Afghans eke out a close win in the final over of the game. Adil Rashid was the last man to be dismissed when he holed out to Ibrahim Zadran to give Azmatullah Omarzai his maiden ODI fifer. 

Once the match was completed and Afghanistan had won there were widespread celebrations across the country. Fans could be seen thronging to the streets and showing their jubilation. Not just on the field even fans who had assembled to watch the game in various places could be seen expressing unbridled joy after the win. 

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Afghanistan 🇦🇫#ChampionsTrophy2025#AFGvENGpic.twitter.com/GjbASea2Dr

— Riaz Khananzai (@RiazMohamm75423) February 26, 2025

Ibrahim Zadran created a new record with the bat as he scored 177 runs with the bat. This was the highest ever individual score by a batter in Champions Trophy history. Ben Duckett had the previous record when he scored 165 vs Australia in Lahore earlier in the campaign. Afghanistan scored 325/7 from their 50 overs after opting to bat first. 

Needing 326 to win, England saw Joe Root score a terrific ton before getting out for 120. Root’s knock came off 111 balls with 11 fours and a six as he gained good Jos Buttler (38) and Jamie Overton (32). Azmatullah Omarzai though ended any hopes of an England win when he had the key wicket of Root in the 46th over. 

‘One of the best knocks I have seen’ – Afghan skipper on Ibrahim Zadran ton 

Once the match was done, Afghan players were seen forming a huddle and celebrating the win. Speaking at the post-match interaction skipper Hasmatullah Shahidi had nothing but praise for his players. Shahidi spoke about two players in particular who had changed the course of the game. 

Shahidi said, “As a team we are happy. Our nation will be happy with this win. Moving on to the next game. We beat them first time in 2023. We are improving day by day. Today was a tense game. We controlled it well. I am happy with the result. Zadran is a talented guy. We were three down at the beginning and the pressure was on. The partnership between me and him was crucial. One of the best ODI knocks that I have seen.”

Afghanistan skipper also added, “Azmat played a good knock. Played with positive intent. He bowled crucial overs as well. We have talented youngsters and some senior guys. Everyone knows their role. Everyone is doing good. Hopefully, we will take the momentum to the game versus Australia. It will give us confidence but it will be a new day. That game will decide who will go to the semis. We will do what is good for us on that day.”