England continued their poor run in ICC events as they suffered an eight-run defeat to Afghanistan in the ICC Champions Trophy. Chasing a target of 326, Joe Root played a magnificent innings of 120, but no other batter could go past the fifty-run mark as England fell short. This was England's second defeat in two games which knocked them out of the semifinal race. England previously lost to Australia by five wickets after they failed to defend the 351-run target. This was England's second consecutive defeat to Afghanistan in the ICC ODI events, having previously lost to them at the ODI World Cup 2023.

Meanwhile, former India cricketer Irfan Pathan danced in joy as Afghanistan defeated England. Irfan shares a close bond with Afghan cricketers thus when Afghanistan came out on top over England, Irfan took to Instagram and shared a video of him dancing to 'Afghan Jalebi'. Notably, Irfan's dance with Rashid Khan had gone viral after Afghanistan's win over England in the ODI World Cup 2023 as well.

For Afghanistan, Ibrahim Zadran shattered records during the 177 run knock and helped the team post a good total of 325. This was not a winning total by any means given that 300+ totals were chased easily before at the venue, however, the bowling from Afghanistan was simply superb as they kept England on the backfoot for most of the chase and eventually came out on top. Afghanistan now have a good chance to qualify for the semifinal if they beat Australia in their last league game.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi lauded the team for their efforts and highlighted the team's steady growth in international cricket.

"As a team we are happy. Our nation will be happy with this win. Moving on to the next game. We beat them first time in 2023. We are improving day by day. Today was a tense game. We controlled it well. I am happy with the result. Zadran is a talented guy. We were three down at the beginning and the pressure was on. The partnership between me and him was crucial. One of the best ODI knocks that I have seen. Azmat played a good knock. Played with positive intent. He bowled crucial overs as well. We have talented youngsters and some senior guys. Everyone knows their role. Everyone is doing good. Hopefully, we will take the momentum to the game versus Australia. It will give us confidence but it will be a new day. That game will decide who will go to the semis. We will do what is good for us on that day," he said.

Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Cricket, Sports and around the world.