Lahore, Feb 26 – Afghanistan opener Ibrahim Zadran delivered a stellar performance, smashing a career-best 177 runs off 146 balls, guiding his team to a formidable 325/7 against England in their Champions Trophy clash on Wednesday.
After Afghanistan was left reeling at 37 for 3 in the ninth over, Zadran staged a remarkable recovery alongside captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, forging a crucial 103-run stand. Shahidi contributed 40 off 67 deliveries, providing stability to the innings.
Zadran’s aggressive batting display saw further partnerships—a 72-run stand with Azmatullah Omarzai (41 off 31 balls) for the fifth wicket and a 111-run partnership with Mohammad Nabi (40 off 24 balls) for the sixth wicket—helping Afghanistan post a commanding total.
Jofra Archer led the bowling attack for England, claiming 3/64 in 10 overs, dismantling Afghanistan’s top order early in the innings. Liam Livingstone provided additional support, picking up 2/28.
Toss & Team News: Afghanistan, led by Shahidi, opted to bat first. England made a single change, bringing in Jamie Overton for the injured Brydon Carse, while Afghanistan fielded an unchanged lineup.
Brief Scores:
Afghanistan: 325/7 in 50 overs (Ibrahim Zadran 177, Hashmatullah Shahidi 40, Azmatullah Omarzai 41, Mohammad Nabi 40; Jofra Archer 3/64, Liam Livingstone 2/28).England will now have a challenging chase ahead as they look to respond to Afghanistan’s imposing total.
Last updated by a enewsx:
