Afghanistan stunned everyone with its performance yesterday, creating a mark in world cricket arena one win at a time. In a nail-biting, edge of the seat thriller, Afghanistan was successful in defeating England by eight runs in the Champions Trophy group stage fixture. The win is hailed by all, and is a representation of Afghanistan’s growth in the sport over the years, and most importantly their attitude of never giving up till the end.

Batting first, Afghanistan posted a target of 325 for seven, riding high on Ibrahim Zadran’s brilliant knock of 146 balls in Lahore, supported by Azmatullah Omarzai’s 5 for 58. They restricted England to 317, eight runs close to their victory yet short enough to taste the sweet nectar of a win. Afghanistan crashed England out of Champions Trophy and are still alive in the game, giving a tough fight.

Well, to those who do not know, this is not the first time when England is defeated by Afghanistan. The former were defeated in their last ODI with the Asian counrty in the 2023 ODI World Cup game as well. Afghanistan is emerging big in the world cricket, it also posed a tough fight to the World Cup winners Australia as well. And now again, ready to face the Kangaroos in their next match.

Apart from the cricket fans all around the world, Afghnaistan is being hailed by cricketing greats as well. With some praising them for the win, while the others ready to slam England. Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar said, “Afghanistan’s steady and consistent rise in international cricket has been inspiring. You cannot term their wins as upsets anymore, they have made this a habit now.”

Ravi Shastri hailed Afghanistan, at the same time criticized Afghanistan. Former player and Indian coach said, “Afghanistan. You guys rock. Kammaaal Kaardi. For England, take playing in the sub-continent seriously with no excuses. Only then you will be recognized as a team that can TRAVEL #AFGvsENG #ChamoionsTrophy2025.”

Ajay Jadeja who has served as the mentor for Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup said, “Afghanistan fans deserve this victory as they are the most passionate and humble cricket fans around the world. #AfgvsEng.”

Former Engalnd Captain Michaek Vaughan also showered praise for Afghanistan, saying that England was not up to the mark. He said, “Brilliant from Afghanistan…thoroughly deserved win..England just haven’t played good enough white ball cricket over a couple of years…this result isn’t a surprise in these conditions..#ChampionsTrophy2025.”

Fans even say that Afghanistan cricket is far better than Pakistan cricket. Afganistan continues to play good cricket, and they might keep moving ahead posing a threat to the cricket giants in the favoring conditions of Dubai and Pakistan.