The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Group B match between Afghanistan and Australia on February 28, 2025, at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore was abandoned due to persistent rain. Afghanistan, batting first, posted a total of 273 runs in their allotted 50 overs. In response, Australia reached 109 for 1 in 12.5 overs before the match was called off. As a result, both teams were awarded one point each, leading to Australia’s qualification for the semi-finals with a total of four points. Afghanistan’s chances of advancing now depend on the outcome of the upcoming match between South Africa and England.

Match Summary:

Afghanistan Innings:

Total: 273 all out in 50 overs

Top Performers:

Sediqullah Atal: 85 runs off 95 balls

Azmatullah Omarzai: 67 runs off 63 balls

Australian Bowlers:

Ben Dwarshuis: 3 wickets for 47 runs in 9 overs

Adam Zampa: 2 wickets for 48 runs in 10 overs

Spencer Johnson: 2 wickets for 49 runs in 10 overs

Australia Innings:

Score Before Abandonment: 109 for 1 in 12.5 overs

Top Performers:

Travis Head: 59* runs off 40 balls

Matthew Short: 20 runs off 15 balls

Afghan Bowlers:

Azmatullah Omarzai: 1 wicket for 43 runs in 5 overs

Key Moments:

Afghanistan’s innings was bolstered by a solid 85 from Sediqullah Atal and a quick 67 from Azmatullah Omarzai, setting a competitive target of 274.

Australia’s chase began aggressively, with Travis Head scoring a rapid half-century. However, rain interrupted play when Australia was at 109 for 1, leading to the match’s abandonment.

Implications:

With the additional point from the abandoned match, Australia has secured a spot in the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy. Afghanistan’s progression now hinges on the result of the South Africa vs. England match; they require a favorable outcome to keep their tournament hopes alive.

Due to the match’s abandonment, no “Man of the Match” award was conferred.

For a detailed overview of the match, you can watch the highlights below