AFG vs ENG Dream 11 Team Prediction, Playing 11, Squad, Weather Forecast, Pitch Report in ICC Champions Trophy 2025: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 continues to deliver thrilling cricketing action, and the eighth match promises to be no different. On February 26th, Afghanistan (AFG) will face off against England (ENG) at the iconic National Stadium in Karachi, with the game scheduled to begin at 2:30 PM IST. Both teams are coming off disappointing losses in their opening matches, making this encounter a crucial battle for redemption. Here’s a detailed AFG vs ENG match preview, Dream11 predictions, fantasy cricket tips, and expert analysis for the 8th match of ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
AFG vs ENG: A Tale of Contrasting Fortunes
Afghanistan and England find themselves in contrasting positions in Group B, despite both suffering defeats in their first games. Afghanistan’s campaign got off to a rocky start with a crushing 107-run loss to South Africa. While the result was disheartening, Rahmat Shah’s valiant 90-run innings stood out as a beacon of hope for the Afghan side. His performance showcased the resilience and talent within the team, proving that Afghanistan is capable of competing against the best.
On the other hand, England put up a spirited fight against Australia but fell short despite Ben Duckett’s sensational 165-run knock. Duckett’s innings was a masterclass in anchoring and accelerating an innings, and it highlighted England’s depth in batting. However, their inability to secure a win has left them in third place in the group standings, while Afghanistan languishes at the bottom.
AFG vs ENG Head-to-Head Record
| Teams | Matches Played | Matches Won |
|---|---|---|
| Afghanistan | 3 | 1 |
| England | 3 | 2 |
Afghanistan has consistently shown that they are a team capable of springing surprises, especially in high-pressure tournaments. With both teams desperate for a win, this match could be a turning point for either side.
AFG vs ENG Weather and Pitch Report
- Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
- Temperature: 29°C
- Weather Forecast: Sunny
- Pitch Behavior: Batting-friendly, favors pace bowlers early on
- Average 1st Innings Score: 303
- Record of Chasing Teams: 60% win rate
The National Stadium in Karachi is known for its batting-friendly pitches, and the conditions on match day are expected to be no different. The toss could play a crucial role, as teams chasing have a 60% win rate at this venue.
AFG vs ENG Probable Playing XIs
Afghanistan Playing XI:
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi
England Playing XI:
Phil Salt, Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith (wk), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (c), Liam Livingstone, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood
AFG vs ENG Dream11 Predictions and Fantasy Cricket Tips
Captaincy Picks
- Ben Duckett (ENG): Fresh off a breathtaking 165-run innings, Duckett is in sublime form and is a strong candidate for captaincy in both small and grand leagues.
- Philip Salt (ENG): Known for his explosive batting at the top of the order, Salt is a high-risk, high-reward option.
Top Picks
- Joe Root (ENG): A consistent performer with the bat, Root’s ability to anchor the innings and contribute with part-time off-spin makes him a valuable asset.
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (AFG): A dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, Gurbaz has the potential to deliver impactful performances.
Budget Picks
- Mohammad Nabi (AFG): The experienced all-rounder brings balance to the team with his batting and off-spin.
- Gulbadin Naib (AFG): A versatile player who can contribute with both bat and ball, Naib is a solid budget pick.
Players to Avoid
- Hashmatullah Shahidi (AFG): 7.5 credits, 9 points in the last match.
- Harry Brook (ENG): 7.0 credits, 7 points in the last match.
AFG vs ENG Dream11 Team Combinations
Dream11 Team 1:
- Keepers: Jos Buttler, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Philip Salt
- Batsmen: Ben Duckett (c), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah
- All-rounders: Mohammad Nabi, Joe Root (vc), Azmatullah Omarzai
- Bowlers: Rashid Khan, Jofra Archer
Dream11 Team 2:
- Keepers: Jos Buttler, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (vc), Philip Salt (c)
- Batsmen: Ben Duckett, Rahmat Shah
- All-rounders: Mohammad Nabi, Joe Root, Azmatullah Omarzai
- Bowlers: Rashid Khan, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer
AFG vs ENG Match Winner Prediction
Given their well-balanced squad and recent batting form, England enters this match as favorites to secure victory. However, Afghanistan’s ability to punch above their weight cannot be underestimated. If players like Rahmat Shah and Rashid Khan fire, Afghanistan could pull off an upset.
Final Thoughts
As Afghanistan and England prepare to lock horns, the stakes couldn’t be higher. For Afghanistan, it’s a chance to prove their mettle on the global stage, while England will be eager to bounce back and keep their campaign alive. With a batting-friendly pitch and plenty of star power on display, this match promises to be a thrilling contest. Will Afghanistan spring a surprise, or will England’s firepower prove too much to handle? Cricket fans, buckle up for an exciting showdown!
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