The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Group B match between England and Afghanistan is set to take place at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. Both teams need a victory after losing their opening matches. Afghanistan, led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, won the toss and elected to bat first. England made a crucial change, replacing the injured Brydon Carse with Jamie Overton. Young leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed has been added as Carse’s replacement in the squad. Afghanistan remains unchanged from their previous game.
- England replaces Brydon Carse due to a toe injury, bringing in Jamie Overton.
- Afghanistan remains unchanged, sticking with their previous XI.
- The match is crucial for both teams as they seek their first win in the tournament.
England vs Afghanistan: Playing XIs
England:
Ben Duckett, Philip Salt (wk), Jamie Smith, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (c), Liam Livingstone, Jamie Overton, Mark Wood, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer
Afghanistan:
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi
England’s Strategy and Captain’s Thoughts
Jos Buttler, England’s captain, admitted they would have also opted to bat first. He emphasized the importance of high individual skills and strong bowling performances. He hopes the dew factor will assist England while bowling later in the night. The addition of Jamie Overton aims to strengthen England’s bowling attack.
Afghanistan’s Plan for Victory
Hashmatullah Shahidi explained that their strategy is to set a strong total and capitalize on potential spin in the second innings. He expressed confidence in Afghanistan’s bowling attack, aiming to restrict England with disciplined bowling. He hopes the pitch slows down, making it tough for England’s batters.
Match Prediction: Who Has the Upper Hand?
England enters the match with a strong batting lineup featuring experienced players like Joe Root and Jos Buttler. However, Afghanistan’s spin attack, led by Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad, can be a significant threat. The team that handles pressure better and adapts to pitch conditions will have the edge.
What to Expect?
- Afghanistan’s spinners could dominate if the pitch slows down.
- England’s pace attack will look to exploit early conditions under lights.
- A close contest as both teams fight to stay alive in the tournament.
This match is set to be a thrilling encounter with high stakes for both teams. Cricket fans can expect a battle of skills, strategy, and execution.
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