In England last league match in Group B, they will face South Africa, who already have three points, while Afghanistan play Australia
Ibrahim Zadran's brilliant 177 and all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai's fifer helped a fighting Afghanistan register a thrilling eight-run win to knock England out of the Champions Trophy at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Wednesday, February 26. (Full Coverage | More Cricket News)
Joe Root's hundred was in vain as a disappointed England side had no answers and now are winless after two games.
A frustrated Jos Buttler acknowledged that Afghanistan were brilliant and stressed on England's missed opportunities.
"Disappointing to be knocked out of the tournament early. We had our chances in the game and we didn't take them," Jos Buttler said at the post-match presentation ceremony.
The England skipper, who had spoken about his captaincy being on the line before the crucial clash against Afghanistan did not make any quick decisions when asked about the leadership role.
"I don't want to say any emotional statements right now. But I think for myself and the other guys at the top, we should consider all possibilities," he added.
Jofra Archer's (3/64) had Afghanistan on the brink and under immense pressure at the point inside the first 10 overs on a brilliant surface.
However, Ibrahim Zadran (177 off 144) put on a batting exhibiton as he punished England and helped Afghanistan finish with 325 for the loss of seven wickets.
"Credit to Ibrahim, he played a fantastic innings. 113 off the last 10 pushed them up to a very good score on that pitch," Buttler further added.
England's chase blew hot and cold as they lost Phil Salt and Jamie Smith, and were 30 for two. But Root (120) brought stability to the innings through two partnerships, notching up 68 rubs with Ben Duckett (38) and then an 83-run stand with Jos Buttler.
England eventually were bowled out for 317 with a ball to spare as Omarzai (5/58) struck at regular intervals.
A thrilled Hashmatullah Shahidi also opened up after their major win and also stressed on moving on and focusing on the next game.
"As a team we are happy. Our nation will be happy with this win. Moving on to the next game. We beat them first time in 2023. We are improving day by day. Today was a tense game. We controlled it well. I am happy with the result," Shahidi said.
In England last league match in Group B, they will face South Africa, who already have three points, while Afghanistan play Australia.