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The England vs Afghanistan prediction for the 8th ODI of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is highly anticipated, with England being the favorites. However, Afghanistan’s recent performances suggest they could pose a significant challenge. Let’s dive into the details of this exciting clash.
Table of content
- 1 Match Details
- 2 Team Previews
- 3 Afghanistan Preview
- 4 England Preview
- 5 Team Squads
- 6 Probable Playing XI
- 7 Fantasy Team XI – Dream11 Prediction for Today England vs Afghanistan
- 8 Favourite Team in Today’s Match
- 9 England ODI History
- 10 Afghanistan ODI History
- 11 Head-to-Head Stats
- 12 Pitch Report
- 13 Weather Report
- 14 Broadcast Details
- 15 Toss Prediction:
- 16 Match Prediction?
- 17 FAQ – ENG vs AFG 8th ODI
- 18 Share this:
- 19 Like this:
- 20 Related
Match Details
| Match | Details |
|---|---|
| Teams | England vs Afghanistan |
| Match | 8th ODI, ICC Champions Trophy 2025 |
| Date | Wednesday, 26th February 2025 |
| Time | 2:30 PM (Local Time) |
| Venue | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
| Broadcast | Star Sports Network, JioHotstar |
Team Previews
Afghanistan Preview
Afghanistan entered the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with high hopes, but their campaign started on a disappointing note with a 107-run loss to South Africa. Both their batting and bowling units failed to deliver a complete performance, exposing areas they must improve before facing England.
Bowling Concerns for Afghanistan
Bowling first against South Africa, Afghanistan conceded a mammoth 315 runs in 50 overs, struggling to contain the opposition’s power hitters. Mohammad Nabi was the standout performer, picking up 2 wickets for 51 runs in his full quota of 10 overs. His experience and control were evident, making him one of the few positives for Afghanistan.
Among the other bowlers, Azmatullah Omarzai managed to pick up one wicket while conceding 39 runs in 6 overs, and Fazalhaq Farooqi and Noor Ahmad also claimed a wicket each. However, Afghanistan’s biggest concerns will be the form of Rashid Khan and Gulbadin Naib, both of whom failed to take a wicket and were expensive.
With England’s aggressive batting lineup up next, Afghanistan’s bowlers will need to deliver a much-improved performance, particularly Rashid Khan, who remains their biggest weapon in white-ball cricket.
Batting Struggles
Afghanistan’s chase of 316 never gained momentum, as their batting unit collapsed under pressure. Rahmat Shah was the only batter to show resilience, scoring 90 runs off 92 balls, hitting 9 fours and a six. Despite his valiant effort, he lacked support from the other end.
All-rounder Rashid Khan chipped in with a quick 18 off 13 balls, including three boundaries and a six, while Azmatullah Omarzai (18) and Ibrahim Zadran (17) failed to convert their starts. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, one of Afghanistan’s most destructive batters, was dismissed cheaply, highlighting their top-order woes.
Key Players & Areas of Improvement
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz & Ibrahim Zadran must provide a strong start against England’s pace attack.
- Rashid Khan & Mohammad Nabi’s spin will be crucial, especially in Lahore’s conditions.
- Middle-order stability remains a key concern, with Afghanistan relying too much on Rahmat Shah.
Despite their struggles, Afghanistan will take confidence from their 69-run victory over England in the 2023 ODI World Cup, a game where their spinners dominated. If they can replicate that performance, an upset might be on the cards.
England Preview
England’s five-wicket defeat to Australia in their opening game was a frustrating result, especially after posting 351 runs while batting first. Their batting showed promise, but their bowling attack struggled to contain Australia’s chase.
Batting Strengths & Key Performers
Despite the loss, Ben Duckett’s incredible 165 off 143 balls was a massive positive. The left-hander played an outstanding knock, smashing 17 fours and 3 sixes, showing his adaptability in subcontinent conditions.
Alongside him, Joe Root played a solid anchor role with 68 off 78 balls, stabilizing England’s innings. However, skipper Jos Buttler (23) and Jofra Archer (21 not out) failed to capitalize on starts, exposing England’s dependence on their top-order.
Heading into the game against Afghanistan, England will be looking for a big knock from Buttler, who has been struggling for form in ODIs. His ability to counter spin will be tested against Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi.
Bowling Woes & Squad Changes
England’s bowling attack failed to defend 352, as Australia chased the target in 47.3 overs. Adil Rashid (1/47 in 10 overs) was the most economical, but others, including Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, and Brydon Carse, leaked runs.
A forced change will see Jamie Overton replace the injured Brydon Carse, as Rehan Ahmed is not expected to arrive in time. Overton’s inclusion adds pace but reduces England’s spin options, making Adil Rashid even more crucial.
Key Players & Areas of Focus
- Ben Duckett & Joe Root must continue their form and counter Afghanistan’s spin attack.
- Jos Buttler’s performance will be crucial in guiding England’s middle order.
- Adil Rashid’s spin will play a major role, especially against Afghanistan’s struggling batters.
- Jofra Archer & Mark Wood need to provide early breakthroughs to prevent Afghanistan from settling in.
Team Squads
Afghanistan Squad
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Ikram Alikhil, Nangeyalia Kharote, Naveed Zadran.
England Squad
Jamie Smith (wk), Jos Buttler (c), Philip Salt, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood, Jamie Overton, Rehan Ahmed, Saqib Mahmood, Tom Banton, Gus Atkinson.
Probable Playing XI
| Afghanistan | England |
|---|---|
| Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk) | Jos Buttler (c & wk) |
| Ibrahim Zadran | Philip Salt |
| Rahmat Shah | Ben Duckett |
| Hashmatullah Shahidi (c) | Joe Root |
| Mohammad Nabi | Harry Brook |
| Azmatullah Omarzai | Liam Livingstone |
| Gulbadin Naib | Jofra Archer |
| Rashid Khan | Adil Rashid |
| Noor Ahmad | Mark Wood |
| Fazalhaq Farooqi | Jamie Overton |
| Naveed Zadran | Gus Atkinson |
Fantasy Team XI – Dream11 Prediction for Today England vs Afghanistan
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Jos Buttler (c) | Wicketkeeper |
| Rahmanullah Gurbaz | Batsman |
| Ben Duckett | Batsman |
| Joe Root | Batsman |
| Rahmat Shah | Batsman |
| Mohammad Nabi | All-rounder |
| Rashid Khan (vc) | Bowler |
| Jofra Archer | Bowler |
| Adil Rashid | Bowler |
| Mark Wood | Bowler |
| Fazalhaq Farooqi | Bowler |
Explanation: Jos Buttler and Rashid Khan are must-haves due to their all-round capabilities. Ben Duckett and Rahmat Shah are in great form, while Jofra Archer and Fazalhaq Farooqi provide wicket-taking options.
Players to Avoid in Fantasy Team
- Harry Brook: Struggling for consistency in ODIs.
- Gulbadin Naib: Limited impact with both bat and ball recently.
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
England is the favorite due to their strong batting lineup and experienced bowling attack. Their recent form, despite a few losses, shows they have the depth to dominate Afghanistan.
England ODI History
England has played 810 ODIs, winning 403 and losing 368. They are one of the most successful ODI teams, known for their aggressive batting and depth in bowling.
Afghanistan ODI History
Afghanistan has played 176 ODIs, winning 85 and losing 85. They have emerged as a competitive side, especially in spin-friendly conditions.
Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches Played | England Won | Afghanistan Won | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 |
England leads 2-1 in head-to-head encounters, but Afghanistan’s recent win shows they can challenge the English side.
Pitch Report
The Gaddafi Stadium pitch is known for being batting-friendly, with some assistance for spinners as the game progresses. A score of 280+ is par.
Weather Report
Clear skies with no rain expected. Temperatures will hover around 22°C, ideal for a full game.
Also Check For More: Champions Trophy 2025 Match Prediction
Broadcast Details
- TV: Star Sports Network
- Streaming: JioHotstar
Toss Prediction:
Winner: Afghanistan
Match Prediction?
Our Winner: England Will Win
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Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
FAQ – ENG vs AFG 8th ODI
Who will win today’s match?
England are the favorites with a 74% chance of winning.
What is the predicted score?
If England bats first: 258+. If Afghanistan bats first: 241+.
Who is the key player for Afghanistan?
Rashid Khan, due to his all-round abilities.
Who is the key player for England?
Ben Duckett, in excellent form with the bat.
What is the toss prediction?
Afghanistan is likely to win the toss.
Which bowlers will perform well?
Adil Rashid and Fazalhaq Farooqi are expected to shine.
Is this a must-win game for both teams?
Yes, as it’s a crucial group-stage match.
What is the head-to-head record?
England leads 2-1 in 3 matches.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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