The legendary Sachin Tendulkar led the cricket world in showering praise on Afghanistan for their stunning eight-run victory over England in the Champions Trophy, saying their wins `can`t be termed as upsets anymore`.
Batting first, Afghanistan rode on opener Ibrahim Zadran`s brilliant 177 off 146 balls to post 325 for seven in Lahore on Wednesday, and then, Azmatullah Omarzai`s (5/58) exploits with the ball restricted England to 317 all out to keep their semifinals hopes alive.
“Afghanistan`s steady and consistent rise in international cricket has been inspiring! You can`t term their wins as upsets anymore, they`ve made this a habit now.
“A superb century by @IZadran18 and wonderful five-for by @AzmatOmarzay, sealed another memorable win for Afghanistan. Well played!” Tendulkar wrote on `X`.
While lauding the Afghans, former India coach Ravi Shastri criticised England for their inability to perform in sub-continent conditions.
“Afghanistan. You guys rock. Kammaaal Kaardi. For England. Take playing in the Subcontinent seriously with no excuses. Only then you will be recognised as a Team that can TRAVEL #AFGvENG #ChampionsTrophy2025,” Shastri wrote.
Former India cricketer Ajay Jadeja, who has worked with Afghanistan as a mentor during the 2023 World Cup, also took to social media to congratulate the team for the famous win.
“Afghanistan fans deserves this victory as they are the most passionate & humble cricket fans around the world #AFGvENG,” he wrote.
Pakistan pace legend Shoaib Akhtar backed Afghanistan to go beyond the semi-final stage.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan also praised Afghanistan`s performance, saying England were just not up to the mark.
“Brilliant from Afghanistan .. Thoroughly deserved win .. England just haven`t played good enough white ball cricket for a couple of years .. this result isn`t a surprise in these conditions .. #ChampionsTrophy2025,” Vaughan wrote.
(With agency inputs)