England Champions vs Pakistan Champions, AS IT HAPPENED: Pakistan Champions began their World Championship of Legends 2025 campaign with a narrow 5-run win over England Champions at Edgbaston on Friday, 18th July.
Batting first, Pakistan posted 160/9, thanks to MOTM Mohammad Hafeez’s 54 off 34 balls and a late surge from Aamer Yamin (27 off 13). Sohail Tanvir (17 off 11) also chipped in, with the last five overs producing 58 runs. Liam Plunkett (2/28) and Chris Tremlett (2 wickets) were England’s best bowlers.
Chasing 161, England kept pace with Phil Mustard’s 58 off 51, but his dismissal in the 16th over to Tanvir shifted momentum. Ian Bell remained unbeaten on 51 off 35, while Eoin Morgan struggled to find boundaries late on.
Needing 11 off the final over, England fell just short at 155/3. Rumman Raees starred with the ball, giving away only 14 in 4 overs, while Sohail Khan held his nerve in the last over to seal victory for Pakistan.
England Champions will be led by none other than Eoin Morgan, the man who famously guided the country to their first-ever ODI World Cup title in 2019. With the advantage of home conditions and a squad filled with proven match-winners, England will be eager to start their campaign on a strong note.
The side features seasoned all-rounder Moeen Ali, along with dependable names such as Liam Plunkett, Samit Patel, and Ravi Bopara-players who have delivered on the international stage in the past and continue to bring valuable experience and flair.
On the other side, Pakistan Champions will be looking to go one better than last year, having finished as runners-up in the 2024 edition. This time, they return with a renewed sense of purpose and an even stronger squad, led by the charismatic Shahid Afridi. Known for his explosive batting and never-say-die attitude, Afridi will once again marshal his troops in pursuit of the coveted title.
Pakistan’s line-up is brimming with legendary talent, including former Test captain Misbah-ul-Haq, batting stalwart Younis Khan, and pace spearhead Wahab Riaz. With a mix of power-hitters, tactical brains, and bowling firepower, the team is widely regarded as one of the strongest contenders in this year’s tournament.
As the cricketing greats of England and Pakistan square off in the tournament opener, fans can expect a high-octane clash loaded with nostalgia, pride, and competitive spirit. The encounter promises not just entertainment but a celebration of the sport’s enduring appeal-proof that class truly is permanent.