The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash between Afghanistan and Australia ended without a result. Held on Friday (February 28) at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium, Australia was set a target of 274 runs. Chasing this, the Kangaroos amassed 109 runs for 1 wicket in 12.5 overs, after which rain and a soggy outfield halted the match.
Afghan Team Needs Prayers, Here's the Equation
Both teams were awarded one point each due to the washed-out match. As a result, Australia advanced to the semifinals with four points, while Afghanistan is stuck with three points. However, there is still a glimmer of hope for the Afghan team to qualify for the semifinals.
Afghanistan can only make it to the semifinals if the English team secures a massive victory over South Africa in Karachi on Saturday (March 1), so that South Africa's net run rate falls below Afghanistan's. Notably, South Africa's net run rate (+2.140) is currently the best in the tournament, while Afghanistan's is -0.990.
For example, if South Africa bats first and scores 300 runs, England will need to chase down that target in 11.1 overs. Alternatively, if England sets a target of 300 after batting first, South Africa would need to suffer a defeat by at least 207 runs. Should this scenario not occur, South Africa will progress to the semifinals. Afghan fans must, therefore, keep hoping for their team's success.
In Group B of the Champions Trophy, Afghanistan, South Africa, England, and Australia are placed. Australia tops this group, having won one match and shared points in two no-results. Australia's net run rate stands at 0.475. With three points from two matches, South Africa is currently in second place, having won one match, while the game against Australia also ended without a result. Afghanistan, third on the list, holds three points from three matches, whilst England is at the bottom, out of the semifinal race without any points.
Source: aajtak
Turning to Group A, it comprises India, New Zealand, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. India and New Zealand have already reached the semifinals from Group A. The contest to determine the top team will occur on March 2. New Zealand leads this group with two wins from two matches with a net run rate of 0.863. Meanwhile, India, also with two victories, is in second place, boasting four points and a net run rate of 0.647. Bangladesh is third, and Pakistan is fourth, both having one point each, though Bangladesh leads due to a superior net run rate.
Source: aajtak
Remaining Matches in the Champions Trophy:
March 1 - South Africa vs. England, Karachi March 2 - New Zealand vs. India, Dubai March 4 - Semifinal 1, Dubai March 5 - Semifinal 2, Lahore March 9 - Final, Lahore (If India reaches, played in Dubai) March 10 - Reserve Day
