Afghanistan vs England Live Score, ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Must-win clash for ENG and AFG to keep tournament hopes alive

Afghanistan vs England Live Score, ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Both teams suffered defeats in their opening matches due to exceptional batting performances from their opponents. However, their hopes remain alive thanks to yesterday's washed-out match between the teams that beat them. England, under greater pressure, must secure a win to stay in contention, while for Afghanistan, any victory would be a remarkable milestone in their journey to the Champions Trophy.

England's aggressive "Bazball" approach, which has dominated Test cricket discussions, has yet to yield success in ODIs. Their struggles continued in a three-match series against India before this tournament, where they were outplayed. Despite posting 356/5 against a weakened Australian bowling attack, they lost by five wickets with more than two overs to spare. Liam Livingstone insisted they didn't deserve to lose, but their inability to defend 356 in 47.3 overs tells a different story. This defeat marked England's fifth consecutive ODI loss, adding to the mounting pressure.

Afghanistan, meanwhile, has faced questions about off-field issues related to their country, with some UK lawmakers even calling for England to boycott the match. However, Afghanistan’s coach, former England batter Jonathan Trott, acknowledged the complex situation, emphasizing the players’ resilience. Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi reiterated that his team remains focused on the game, working hard to perform on the field.

Despite external controversies, the England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed the match would proceed following discussions with the UK government, ICC, and players. While cricket alone cannot address Afghanistan’s challenges, England must focus on fixing their on-field struggles if they hope to avoid an early exit from the tournament.