AFG vs ENG Dream11 Prediction: Dream11 Team Today, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Playing XI, Pitch Report, Injury Update – ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Match No-8

Afghanistan vs England Match Preview

The 8th match of the Champions Trophy 2025 will feature a Group B clash between Afghanistan and England at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Both teams suffered heavy defeats in their previous matches, making this contest crucial as they look to secure their first two points in the tournament.

The match is scheduled to begin at 2:30 PM IST on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Cricket fans can catch the action live on the Star Sports Network channels, while those preferring to stream can watch it on the JioHotstar app.

Afghanistan vs England Head-to-Head Records in ODIs (Total matches played: 03)

In ODI history, Afghanistan and England have faced each other three times, with England dominating by winning two matches. However, Afghanistan stunned England in the 2023 ODI World Cup, securing a memorable victory. In the upcoming Champions Trophy clash, all eyes will be on whether England extends their lead to 3-1 or Afghanistan levels the record at 2-2.

AFG vs ENG Weather & Pitch Report

The weather conditions at this ground are favorable for cricket. On match day, the temperature is forecasted to be around 26°C with clear skies. However, cloudy weather is predicted, which is not good news for both teams, as there are chances of rain. Looking at the wicket, it appears to be very batting-friendly, with plenty of runs likely.

The fresh and bouncy surface will allow the ball to come onto the bat easily, making stroke play efficient for batters. The average first-innings score on this ground is 280 runs.

However, in the previous match between Australia and England, England posted a total of 351 in the first innings, but Australia chased it down comfortably with an electrifying batting performance. Considering the conditions, the team batting first needs to score at least 280 runs to make the match competitive. With the pitch favoring batters, they have a good chance to score big runs.

Record of chasing teams on this stadium:

A total of 74 ODIs have been played at this venue to date, and it is hard to determine the success mantra after winning the toss. Out of the total matches played, 37 have been won by the team batting first, while 35 have been won by the team chasing, making it a closely contested venue where choosing to bat or bowl first is a tough decision.

However, one thing is certain—you can expect plenty of runs from both sides. The average first-innings score at this stadium is 280, which has been chased down most of the time. Therefore, teams will need to aim for a total of over 300 to put pressure on the chasing side and make them work harder for victory.

AFG vs ENG toss prediction: England to win the toss and choose to field first

In the eighth match of the Champions Trophy 2025, England are expected to win the toss and choose to field first. In their previous encounter against Australia, they lost the match despite posting a massive total of 351 on the scoreboard. This time, they might opt to field first and chase down the target in the second innings, as their batting lineup looks very formidable.

Afghanistan vs England Squads

Afghanistan Full Squad

Hashmatullah Shahidi ©, Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Gulbadin Naib, Rahmat Shah, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Nangeyalia Kharote, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ikram Alikhil, Rashid Khan, Fareed Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveed Zadran, Noor Ahmad.

England Full Squad

Jos Buttler ©, (wk), Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Tom Banton (wk), Phil Salt (wk), Jamie Smith (wk), Liam Livingstone, Brydon Carse, Liam Livingstone, Jamie Overton, Jacob Bethell, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood

AFG vs ENG Dream11 Prediction Playing 11

Afghanistan’s Playing 11

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi ©, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi.

Afghanistan’s playing XI looks strong despite their loss in the first match against South Africa, and they will be eager to make a strong comeback. Although they were not at their best in the last match, they have several talented players with the potential to perform at the highest level, especially in a tournament like the Champions Trophy.

England’s Playing 11

Phil Salt(wk), Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith (wk), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler ©, Liam Livingstone, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood.

England’s playing XI appears formidable, as they have included several experienced players in their squad for the Champions Trophy 2025. Their batting lineup looks lethal, with depth extending to number seven, where Liam Livingstone is set to bat, strengthening their lower order.

They also have a solid bowling attack, with Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, and Gus Atkinson leading the pace department, while Adil Rashid takes charge of the spin attack.

AFG vs ENG Dream11 Prediction Impact Players List

Afghanistan’s impact players:

• Rahmat Shah
• Mohammad Nabi
• Rashid Khan

Rahmat Shah looked solid with the bat in the previous match against South Africa, scoring 90 runs off 92 balls. His innings helped Afghanistan stay in the game after a major collapse, as he managed to stabilize the innings while he was at the crease. He is one of the in-form batsmen for Afghanistan, looking in great touch and possessing the ability to play big innings for his team.

Mohammad Nabi is one of the most experienced players in the Afghanistan squad, possessing all-round abilities. He can contribute with the bat as well as provide a crucial bowling option in the middle overs with his right-arm off-spin. He might be a key player in the upcoming match against England, especially after showing form with the ball by taking two wickets in the last match.

Rashid Khan is currently the number-one bowler in the world and has consistently proven his worth at the highest level. Although he went wicketless in the previous match, he has been in great form and is expected to bounce back with a strong performance for Afghanistan in the upcoming matches. Additionally, he can make valuable contributions with the bat in the death overs.

England’s impact players

• Ben Duckett
• Joe Root
• Liam Livingstone

Ben Duckett played a sensational innings in the match against Australia, scoring 165 runs off 143 balls at a strike rate of 115.38. He smashed 17 boundaries and three maximums while batting at number three. Duckett started his innings cautiously, building it steadily before accelerating with explosive shots after the powerplay.

He anchored the innings for England, batting until the death overs and setting a strong platform for the incoming batsmen. He will be a key batter for England in the upcoming matches.

Joe Root is one of the most important batsmen for England and a member of the esteemed “Fab Four.” He showcased his class in the last match, scoring 68 runs and providing a solid foundation for the batting lineup. His stability and technique highlight his immense batting skills and what he is capable of delivering for the team.

Liam Livingstone is the most experienced all-rounder in England’s squad, known for his ability to hit shots all over the ground. His power-hitting can significantly boost the team’s run rate in the death overs. Additionally, he offers versatility in bowling with both off-spin and leg-spin, creating a challenge for batters to read his deliveries. Livingstone will be a crucial asset for England if they aim to go deep into the tournament.

AFG vs ENG Dream11 Team Today Stats

Rahmat Shah was the standout performer for Afghanistan in their last match, scoring a crucial 90 runs. His innings played a vital role in stabilizing Afghanistan’s batting lineup after an early collapse. With his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed, Rahmat remains one of Afghanistan’s most dependable batters. His current form makes him a key player to watch in the upcoming match against England.

Mohammad Nabi demonstrated his all-round capabilities in the previous match by picking up two important wickets. As one of the most experienced players in the Afghanistan squad, his role as a middle-over bowler is crucial in restricting the opposition’s run flow. Additionally, his ability to contribute with the bat makes him an invaluable asset to the team. His performance will be key to Afghanistan’s chances against England.

Ben Duckett delivered a sensational knock in England’s last match, scoring 165 runs. His innings was a perfect blend of patience and aggression, allowing England to put up a strong total. Batting at number three, he took charge of the innings, steadily building his score before accelerating in the later stages. Given his recent form, Duckett is expected to play a significant role in England’s batting lineup in the upcoming match.

Joe Root once again proved why he is one of England’s most reliable batsmen, scoring 68 runs in the last match. His ability to provide stability in the middle order and rotate the strike efficiently is crucial for England’s batting structure. Root’s experience and composure make him a key player, as he can build partnerships and steer the innings under pressure. England will rely on his consistency to strengthen their chances in the next game.

Highest run scorers: Joe Root

Highest wicket taker: Rashid Khan

Hot Picks for AFG vs ENG Dream11 Prediction and Fantasy Cricket Tips

Rahmat Shah is a key player for Afghanistan, especially after his brilliant knock of 90 runs in the last match. He played a crucial role in holding the innings together after an early collapse, showing his ability to anchor and stabilize the batting order. His consistent form and composure under pressure make him a reliable pick for fantasy cricket. If Afghanistan wants to put up a strong fight against England, Rahmat’s performance with the bat will be essential.

Ben Duckett was the star performer for England in the last match, scoring a superb 165 runs. His innings was a perfect mix of patience and aggression, helping England post a massive total. Batting at number three, he showed great control and timed his shots beautifully. With his current form, Duckett is expected to be a key player again, making him an excellent choice for fantasy cricket teams.

Afghanistan’s hot pick: Rahmat Shah

England’s hot pick: Ben Duckett

Captaincy Picks for AFG vs ENG Dream11 Prediction

Joe Root is a dependable batsman and a vital part of England’s lineup. He scored 68 runs in the last match, providing stability and building crucial partnerships in the middle order. His ability to handle pressure, rotate the strike, and play big innings makes him a strong captaincy choice. With his experience and consistency, Root can be a game-changer and is expected to play a key role in England’s batting performance.

Rashid Khan is Afghanistan’s biggest match-winner and currently the number-one bowler in the world. Although he went wicketless in the last match, his ability to turn the game around with both ball and bat makes him an ideal captaincy pick. His deceptive spin and variations can trouble England’s batters, while his explosive batting in the lower order can provide crucial runs. If Afghanistan wants to challenge England, Rashid’s performance will be critical.

Top Picks for ENG vs AFG Dream11 Prediction

Mohammad Nabi is one of Afghanistan’s most experienced all-rounders, making him a valuable Dream11 pick. He took two wickets in the last match, proving his effectiveness as a bowler in the middle overs. Additionally, he has the ability to score quick runs with the bat, which can be crucial in pressure situations. His all-round skills and experience make him a key player for Afghanistan and a strong choice for fantasy cricket.

Liam Livingstone is a dynamic all-rounder who brings power-hitting and versatile bowling to England’s squad. His ability to accelerate the scoring in the death overs makes him a dangerous batter, while his off-spin and leg-spin variations add depth to England’s bowling attack. With his capability to contribute in both departments, Livingstone is a top pick for Dream11, as he can earn valuable points with bat and ball.

Budget Picks for AFG vs ENG Dream11 Prediction

Afghanistan’s young left-arm wrist-spinner is a promising talent known for his ability to spin the ball and confuse batters with his variations. He is a good wicket-taking option, especially on pitches that help spinners. South Africa’s middle order has struggled against quality spin in the past, which gives him a good chance to make an impact.

Noor Ahmad’s attacking approach helps him take important wickets at crucial moments, making him a smart budget pick in Dream11. His lower price also allows you to pick other star players while still having a strong bowler in your team.

Jamie Smith is an exciting young talent from England, serving as both a wicketkeeper and an opening batsman alongside Ben Duckett. He is an exceptionally skilled batter with the ability to provide a strong start in the powerplay. His consistency and attacking approach make him a valuable budget pick for Dream11. With his potential to score crucial runs at the top, he is a reliable option who can earn you good fantasy points.

AFG vs ENG Captain and Vice Captain Choices:

Captains Options: Rashid Khan & Joe Root

Rashid Khan is one of the best bowlers in the world and a game-changer for Afghanistan. His ability to take wickets with his spin and contribute quick runs with the bat makes him a great captaincy option in Dream11.

Joe Root is a dependable batsman who provides stability in England’s middle order. He has the skill to build big innings and is consistent, making him a strong captaincy choice for fantasy teams.

Vice-Captains Options: Mohammad Nabi & Ben Duckett

Mohammad Nabi is an experienced all-rounder who can make an impact with both bat and ball. He can pick up key wickets in the middle overs and also score quick runs, making him a reliable vice-captain pick.

Ben Duckett is in great form and scored a big hundred in the last match. As an attacking batsman, he can score quickly and play a match-winning innings, making him a solid choice for vice-captain.

AFG vs ENG Dream11 Prediction Team 1

This Dream11 team is well-balanced with a strong mix of wicketkeepers, batters, all-rounders, and bowlers. Jos Buttler and Rahmanullah Gurbaz are explosive wicketkeeper-batsmen who can provide quick starts. Ben Duckett and Rahmat Shah add stability to the batting lineup, with Duckett in great form and Rahmat being Afghanistan’s key batter.

The all-rounder trio of Mohammad Nabi, Joe Root, and Liam Livingstone offers both batting depth and bowling options, while Azmatullah Omarzai adds further balance with his all-round abilities.

In the bowling department, Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad bring quality spin options, while Adil Rashid strengthens England’s attack with his experience. This team ensures a good combination of power hitters, reliable batters, and wicket-taking bowlers, making it a strong choice for Dream11.

• Keeper: Jos Buttler, Rahmanullah Gurbaz
• Batters: Ben Duckett, Rahmat Shah,
• All-rounders: Mohammad Nabi, Joe Root, Liam Livingstone, Azmatullah Omarzai
• Bowlers: Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Adil Rashid

AFG vs ENG Dream11 Prediction Team 2

This Dream11 team is well-balanced with a strong mix of wicket keepers, batters, all-rounders, and bowlers. Jos Buttler and Rahmanullah Gurbaz are explosive wicketkeeper-batsman who can provide quick starts. Ben Duckett and Rahmat Shah add stability to the batting lineup, with Duckett in great form and Rahmat being Afghanistan’s key batter.

The all-rounder trio of Mohammad Nabi, Joe Root, and Liam Livingstone offers both batting depth and bowling options, while Azmatullah Omarzai adds further balance with his all-round abilities.

In the bowling department, Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad bring quality spin options, while Adil Rashid strengthens England’s attack with his experience. This team ensures a good combination of power hitters, reliable batters, and wicket-taking bowlers, making it a strong choice for Dream11.

• Keeper: Phil Salt, Rahmanullah Gurbaz
• Batters: Ben Duckett, Rahmat Shah,
• All-rounders: Mohammad Nabi, Joe Root, Liam Livingstone, Gulbadin Naib
• Bowlers: Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mark Wood

AFG vs ENG Dream11 Prediction Today (Match No. 8) Champions Trophy 2025

Players to Avoid

Similarly, Jamie Smith is a wicketkeeper-batsman for England, but he is currently the third-choice keeper in the squad. England already has experienced options in Jos Buttler and Phil Salt, both of whom are expected to be part of the playing XI. Unless an unfortunate situation arises, it is highly unlikely that Jamie Smith will make his way into the England lineup for the match against Australia.

Tom Banton is a talented opening batter from England and serves as a backup option for the opening slot. However, with Phil Salt and Ben Duckett in exceptional form, it will be difficult for him to break into the playing XI. Since both openers have been performing consistently, Banton might not get a chance in the next match, as replacing one of them would be a tough decision for the team management.

AFG vs ENG Dream11 Prediction Today (Match No. 8) Champions Trophy 2025 Expert Advice

Captaincy Choice

Joe Root is a top choice for captaincy in Dream11 due to his consistency and ability to anchor England’s batting lineup. He played a crucial knock in the last match and is known for his adaptability in different conditions. His ability to rotate strike, build partnerships, and play long innings makes him a reliable captaincy pick, ensuring steady fantasy points.

Vice Captaincy Choice

Mohammad Nabi is an experienced all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball, making him an excellent vice-captaincy option. He picked up two wickets in the last match and has the ability to score quick runs in the lower order. His all-round skills provide multiple opportunities to earn Dream11 points, making him a strong choice for vice-captain.

Punt Picks

Jos Buttler and Rahmanullah Gurbaz are explosive wicketkeeper-batters who can change the game with their aggressive stroke play. Buttler, known for his power-hitting, can take the game away from the opposition in no time.

While Gurbaz is a fearless opener who can provide a strong start for Afghanistan. Picking them as punt options could be a smart move, as both have the potential to deliver big performances.

The suggested Dream11 team structure consists of two wicketkeepers, two batters, four all-rounders, and three bowlers. This combination ensures a balanced team, with reliable batting options, all-rounders who can contribute in both departments, and a strong bowling attack. The inclusion of all-rounders maximizes the chances of scoring points in multiple ways, making it an ideal fantasy team setup for the match.

Disclaimer: This team is based on the analysis, Calculated odds, and Past Experience of the author. While selecting your team, consider the analysis only as supporting data while making your own decision. Sportsdunia does not work with insider news and will not be responsible for any monetary loss for the users following the analysis.