Australia will need to chase down 274 under the lights at Gaddafi Stadium to secure their place in the ICC Champions Trophy semi-finals, after Afghanistan posted a competitive 273 in their crucial Group B encounter.
Sediqullah Atal anchored Afghanistan’s innings with a solid 85 off 95 balls, while Azmatullah Omarzai provided late acceleration with a quickfire 67. Despite early setbacks, the Afghan batting unit fought back, but Australia’s disciplined bowling attack ensured the target remained within reach.
Australia’s Bowlers Keep Afghanistan in Check
Australia’s bowlers delivered a well-rounded performance, led by Ben Dwarshuis, who picked up 3/47 in his nine overs. Spencer Johnson (2/52) and Adam Zampa (2/44) provided key breakthroughs, while Glenn Maxwell and Nathan Ellis chipped in with a wicket each.
Afghanistan lost opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz for a duck in the first over, dismissed by Johnson. Ibrahim Zadran (22) and Rahmat Shah (12) failed to convert their starts, leaving Afghanistan at 91/3 in the 19th over. Atal and Omarzai then took charge, ensuring a competitive total on the board.
Skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi played a cautious knock of 20 off 49 before falling to Zampa, while lower-order contributions from Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan helped Afghanistan reach 273 before being bowled out in the final over.
Australia’s Chase Under Lights
With a strong batting lineup, Australia will now look to chase down 274 and book their place in the semi-finals. However, Afghanistan’s bowlers, led by Rashid Khan and Fazalhaq Farooqi, will be eager to strike early and put pressure on the Aussies.
If Australia wins, they will qualify for the semi-finals, eliminating Afghanistan. However, an Afghanistan victory would leave Australia’s qualification hopes dependent on the result of the South Africa vs England match tomorrow. In case of a washout, Australia will progress automatically, while Afghanistan’s fate will hinge on England’s performance.
Weather & Pitch Conditions
Rain remains a concern, with a 50% chance of showers in the evening that could impact the match. The Gaddafi Stadium pitch has historically favoured batters, with an average scoring rate of 6.83. If dew sets in, batting could become easier in the second innings, giving Australia an added advantage in their chase.
Head-to-Head Record
Australia has dominated Afghanistan in ODI cricket, winning all four previous encounters. Their most recent clash in the 2023 ICC World Cup saw Glenn Maxwell’s heroic double century guide Australia to a thrilling victory. Afghanistan, yet to register a win against the Aussies, will be hoping to make history tonight.
With a semi-final spot on the line, all eyes are now on Australia’s chase under the Lahore lights. Will they secure their place in the knockout stage, or will Afghanistan pull off a major upset?
