Last Updated on 1 week by Charbel Coorey
AFG vs ENG Reactions: England’s horrid 2025 has continued, with Jos Buttler’s team eliminated from the Champions Trophy after losing their opening two matches. The eight-run defeat to Afghanistan confirmed their exit, and marked their ninth loss in ten matches across formats this year.
This isn’t a surprise. Despite possessing a talented team on paper, England lack the know-how to get across the line in ODIs. The loss to Afghanistan was their 18th in 25 matches since the start of the 2023 World Cup, with this loss set up by the decision play a thin bowling attack.
Mark Wood came into the game with a heavily bandaged knee, but England risked him. Worse, they selected all-rounder Jamie Overton to replace specialist bowler Brydon Carse. England’s bowling lacked depth when they failed to defend 351 against Australia, and it was on show again as the Afghans recovered from 37/3 to take England apart at the death, smashing 113 runs in the final ten overs to finish with 325/7.
England were run ragged. You got the feeling that even on a flat Lahore pitch, England will make tough work of the chase given the momentum Afghanistan finished with and how England struggle under pressure.
In the chase, Joe Root stood out like a sore thumb as he brought up his 17th ODI ton. He manoeuvred spin beautifully as no one else managed to cross 40. Despite regular wickets falling, Root helped take his team to 287/6 with 39 needed off 26 balls. While his dismissal was a huge blow, England still had a great chance to win with Jamie Overton at the crease. However, he couldn’t finish the job.
It’s difficult to see how Jos Buttler can continue as captain from here. “Obviously I don’t enjoy lsing games of cricket and the results,” he said, speaking to Sky Sports. “‘Am I part of the problem or am I part of the solution?’ I think that’s what I’ve got to work out.”
AFG vs ENG Reactions: England criticised for underachieving yet again
Both England and rival fans shared their thoughts on the issues plaguing the team. One big talking point is the onset of The Hundred as a key reason why England’s 50-over game has taken a nosedive. Also, other fans have criticised Brendan McCullum as coach and England’s poor mentality.
For Afghanistan, this is another wonderful moment. They will qualify for the semi-finals if they beat Australia. Ibrahim Zadran was outstanding for his 177, lifting Afghanistan up from a very difficult position early on. Then, Azmatullah Omarzai’s stunning all-round display, including the key wickets of Buttler and Root, helped seal a famous win.
Here are some of the reactions to England’s elimination.
England’s final game in this Champions Trophy will be against South Africa on the 1st of March in Karachi.
