AUS Vs AFG: Australia seals Semi-Final Spot in Champions Trophy

AUS Vs AFG: Australia secured a spot in the semi-finals of the 2025 Champions Trophy from Group B, following a rain-affected washout in their last group stage match against Afghanistan in Lahore.

Following Australia’s qualification, only one spot remains up for grabs, which will be determined in the upcoming match. South Africa will take on England at the National Stadium in Karachi on Saturday.

Afghanistan’s captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, won the toss and decided to bat first, sticking to his team’s strength. Although Afghanistan started cautiously, Sediqullah Atal raised his hand and played a brilliant counter-attacking innings after a slow beginning.

The middle order saw a fierce battle, but the Aussie spinners held their ground, taking wickets at crucial moments. Spencer Johnson returned to the attack and made a significant breakthrough for his team. Sediqullah Atal struck a solid half-century but fell short of a century, while Azmatullah Omarzai once again showcased his ODI skills with a rapid fifty, helping Afghanistan reach a total of 273 runs.

AUS Vs AFG: 2nd Inning

In response, Australia made a strong start, though Afghanistan had a few catching chances that were missed. However, Once Travis Head found his rhythm, he quickly made significant progress toward the target, reducing the required runs in no time.

Australia’s chase was halted by rain with the team at 109/1 in 12.5 overs. Matthew Short contributed 20 off 15 balls before being dismissed by Azmatullah Omarzai. Meanwhile, Travis Head played a brilliant knock of 59* off 40 balls, and captain Steve Smith was unbeaten on 19* off 22 balls.

However, the rain arrived before Afghanistan had the chance to bring Rashid Khan into the attack, and it was quite heavy. Unfortunately, even after the rain stopped, the ground couldn’t be prepared in time to complete at least 20 overs of the chase.

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