Image Credits: cricket.com
Afghanistan’s Ibrahim Zadran on Wednesday, etched his name in the record books as he scored177 runs off 146 balls against England. Zadran broke Ben Duckett’s record for the highest individual score in Champions Trophy. Duckett’s innings of 165 runs against Australia last week was short-lived after the 23-year old batter broke the record with his 177 runs knock.
The initial half of Zadran’s knock was a display of caution as Afghanistan lost three wickets in the initial 10 overs. As the innings progressed Zadran started taking over the English bowlers with the assistance of other batters including skipper Shahidi, Omarzai and veteran Mohammad Nabi. Zadran stitched century-long partnerships with Shahidi and Nabi.
However, the opener’s innings ended in the last over after hitting 12 boundaries and 6 maximums. This 177 run innings created a lot of records as it is not just Ibrahim Zadran’s best score in ODI cricket but it is also the highest score by any Afghanistani batter in ODI cricket.
Afghanistan has posted a giant total of 325/7 for England to chase 326. The chase is going to be a difficult one if the dew does not come, then it will benefit the bowlers. If by chance the dew comes then it will benefit the batting side.