Lahore, Feb 26 (UNI) Afghanistan opener Ibrahim Zadran played a sensational knock of 177 runs, anchoring his side to a formidable total of 325/7 in their ICC Champions Trophy Group B match against England here on Wednesday.
After electing to bat, Afghanistan found themselves in early trouble, losing three wickets within the powerplay. However, Zadran held his ground, forging crucial partnerships to stabilise the innings. He combined with captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (40) for a 103-run stand before adding 72 runs with Azmatullah Omarzai (41). His 24-run stand with Mohammad Nabi (40) further bolstered Afghanistan’s total beyond the 300-run mark.
Zadran’s innings was a masterclass in calculated aggression. While he took the attack to the English bowlers early on, he also allowed Omarzai to play the aggressor in their stand. His fitness was tested as he kept the scoreboard ticking with sharp running between the wickets, even managing to take four runs in the 46th over. He eventually fell in the final over, but not before etching his name in the record books. His innings was decorated with 12 boundaries and 6 sixes.
England’s bowling attack struggled to contain Zadran’s onslaught, with Jofra Archer (3/64) being the standout performer. Jamie Overton (1/72), Adil Rashid (1/60), and Liam Livingstone (2/28) picked up wickets but failed to stem the flow of runs.
With 326 required for victory, England will take confidence from past records, particularly a successful chase of over 350 at this venue. Afghanistan, on the other hand, will be hoping that dew does not play a role and their spinners can make an impact under lights.
Chasing the humongous target, England were 145/4 in 24.5 overs. Jos Buttler and Joe Root were batting on 5 and 48. Batsmen who marched back to pavilion were Philip Salt (12), Been Duckett (38), Jamie Smith (9) and Harry Brook (25).
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