England’s pace attack continued to dismantle Afghanistan’s top order as Jofra Archer claimed his third wicket in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Group B match at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Archer removed Rahmat Shah for 4 runs, further deepening Afghanistan’s struggles in the powerplay.
Archer, who had already dismissed Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Sediqullah Atal, struck once again with a well-directed short delivery at 144 km/h outside off. Rahmat attempted a hook shot but was hurried by the pace, leading to a top edge that was safely pouched by Adil Rashid at fine leg. This marked Afghanistan’s third wicket inside the first nine overs, putting them on the back foot at 37/3.
Both Archer and Mark Wood have kept the Afghan batters under pressure with their express pace and aggressive lengths. While Wood has been disciplined in his approach, Archer has been the main wrecker-in-chief, extracting bounce and movement to trouble the batters.
With Afghanistan struggling early, their middle order will need to step up to stabilize the innings and prevent further collapse. However, England’s bowling attack, led by Archer, remains relentless in its pursuit of wickets.