Joe Root couldn’t hold back his tears as England were eliminated from the ICC Champions Trophy following an eight-run loss to Afghanistan at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Root played a brilliant century in England’s chase of 326, but Afghanistan kept their composure to secure the win.

This defeat continued England’s disappointing trend in ICC events over the past few years, as they failed to make it to the knockout stages of the 2023 ODI World Cup, the 2024 T20 World Cup, and now the Champions Trophy. Root, devastated by the loss, couldn’t hide his emotions as England fell short.

Earlier in the tournament, England suffered a five-wicket defeat to Australia in their opening match, failing to defend a 351-run target.

Ibrahim Zadran’s stunning 177 powered Afghanistan to 325, which their bowlers defended brilliantly to secure their second-ever ICC ODI win over England, after the 2023 World Cup. Root’s 120 was England’s only notable knock, with no other batter crossing 50.

Afghanistan now eyes a semifinal spot, needing a win against Australia. England’s fate was sealed by costly runs in the death overs, worsened by Mark Wood’s injury, a factor Jos Buttler admitted hurt their chances.

“Getting knocked out early is disappointing. We had opportunities in the game but didn’t capitalise on them. Root played an incredible innings, and we needed one of our top six batters to support him. We let the last 10 overs slip away a bit. Credit to Ibrahim, he played a fantastic knock. His 113 in the final 10 overs really pushed them to a strong total on that pitch. Unfortunately, in his fourth over, Wood hurt his knee, but credit to him for continuing to bowl through the pain and showing great resilience.

It was tough in the death overs with Wood injured and Root bowling the 47th over. Livi was off the field but deserves credit for returning. Root has been exceptional in all formats and showed us how to handle the pressure. His ODI record speaks for itself. If I had known I’d be playing like this (referring to his poor form), it’s disappointing, especially as one of the best players in the world. It’s tough when you don’t perform, but I don’t want to make any emotional decisions,” said Buttler.