Afghanistan and England will square off in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on February 26 at 2:30 PM IST. Both teams are keen to secure their first win to stay in contention for the semifinals.
Match Details
- Fixture: Afghanistan vs England, Match 8
- Date and Time: February 26, 2025, 2:30 PM IST
- Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- Broadcast: Live on Star Sports and Sports18 Network
- Live Stream: Available on JioHotstar & Sports 18
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report: Gaddafi Stadium offers a batting-friendly surface with high-scoring potential. In recent matches, teams have consistently scored over 300 runs, making it a haven for batters. Fast bowlers can exploit the new ball for early wickets.
- Average First Innings Score: 255
- Best Bowling Style: Pace
Weather Forecast: Expect clear skies and a temperature of around 23°C. No rain is forecasted, promising an uninterrupted match.
AFG vs ENG Team Previews
Afghanistan (AFG):
Led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, Afghanistan looks to bounce back after a defeat to South Africa. Key players like Rahmat Shah, who scored 90 in the previous match, and all-rounders like Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, will be crucial in this game.
England (ENG):
Despite a spirited 165-run knock by Ben Duckett against Australia, England fell short in their opener. Captained by Jos Buttler, England’s batting depth includes Joe Root and Harry Brook, while their pace attack, led by Jofra Archer and Adil Rashid, aims to dismantle Afghanistan’s lineup.
Key players to watch
- Ben Duckett (ENG): With a 165-run innings in the previous game, Duckett is pivotal for England.
- Rahmat Shah (AFG): A solid performer with 90 runs in the last match.
- Joe Root (ENG): Experience and versatility make him a key all-rounder.
- Rashid Khan (AFG): Known for his leg-spin, crucial for controlling the middle overs.
AFG vs ENG Dream11 fantasy team prediction
Wicketkeepers: Jos Buttler, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Philip Salt
Batters: Ben Duckett (c), Rahmat Shah
All-rounders: Joe Root (vc), Azmatullah Omarzai
Bowlers: Adil Rashid, Rashid Khan, Jofra Archer, Noor Ahmad
Captain Choices: Ben Duckett, Jos Buttler
Vice-Captain Choices: Joe Root, Rashid Khan
Expert Advice
The pitch at Gaddafi Stadium favours batting, so pack your Dream11 team with quality top-order batsmen. Consider Ben Duckett for captaincy due to his recent form. Selecting spinners like Rashid Khan can provide crucial points during middle overs.
In this must-win clash for both teams, expect fireworks as Afghanistan and England battle for a crucial victory in their Champions Trophy campaign, with high stakes adding excitement to this electrifying contest.
