The much-anticipated Australia vs Afghanistan clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 (CT25) ended in disappointment as heavy rain forced the match to be abandoned. While cricket fans were looking forward to an intense contest, nature had other plans. However, this outcome worked in Australia’s favor as they secured a spot in the semi-finals, while Afghanistan’s hopes now rely on external factors.
Match Overview
The match between Australia vs Afghanistan took place at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. Afghanistan won the toss and opted to bat, In the hope of a competitive total. They put up a fighting score of 273 runs before rain disrupted the proceedings. Some key contributions came from:
- Sediqullah Atal: 85 runs off 98 balls
- Azmatullah Omarzai: 67 runs off 72 balls
- Mohammad Nabi: 35 runs off 27 balls
Australia’s bowling attack did well to restrict Afghanistan, with Ben Dwarshuis (3/47) and Adam Zampa (2/48) taking crucial wickets.
In response, Australia was off to a steady start, reaching 109 for 1 in 13 overs, with Travis Head scoring an unbeaten 59 runs. However, rain intervened, and the match was eventually called off.
According to ICC rules, both teams received one point each. This ensured Australia’s qualification for the CT25 semi-finals, while Afghanistan’s fate now depends on other match outcomes.
Australia vs Afghanistan Match Highlight
Updated Points Table (Group B)
With the match being washed out, here’s how the Group B standings look now:
| Team | Matches Played | Wins | Losses | No Result | Points | Net Run Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Australia | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 4 | +0.475 |
| South Africa | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 | +2.140 |
| Afghanistan | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | -0.482 |
| England | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | -2.000 |
Afghanistan’s Semi-Final Chances
Afghanistan still has a slim chance of making it to the semi-finals. Their qualification depends on the result of the upcoming match between South Africa and England:
- If South Africa wins, Afghanistan will be eliminated.
- If England wins by a big margin, Afghanistan might qualify based on Net Run Rate (NRR).
- If the match is washed out, South Africa will advance.
With such tight calculations, Afghan fans will now be closely watching the South Africa vs England encounter.
India’s Upcoming Clash with New Zealand
Meanwhile, India is set to face New Zealand in their final Group A match. Both teams have already secured semi-final spots, but this match will determine who tops the group.
- India’s Form: India has been in great form, led by Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
- New Zealand’s Strength: The Kiwis have been dominant, with Kane Williamson anchoring the batting lineup.
A victory for either side will give them momentum heading into the semi-finals, making this a must-watch match for cricket fans.
Conclusion
The Australia vs Afghanistan match may have ended in frustration due to rain, but it has set the stage for an exciting finish to the CT25 group stage. Australia’s semi-final qualification is confirmed, while Afghanistan’s fate hangs in the balance. As fans eagerly await the South Africa vs England match and India’s showdown with New Zealand, the Champions Trophy drama is far from over!
For live updates and match highlights, visit ICC’s official website.
