Lahore (Web Desk): Afghanistan set a target of 274 runs for Australia in a high-stakes Champions Trophy Group B match being played at the Gaddafi Stadium today (Friday).
The Afghan innings was anchored by Sediqullah Atal, who made a well-played 85, and Azmatullah Omarzai, who blasted a quickfire 67.
Despite a few early setbacks, Afghanistan managed to recover, but Australia’s bowlers kept them in check. Ben Dwarshuis was the standout with the ball, taking 3-47 in his nine overs.
Spencer Johnson and Adam Zampa claimed two wickets each, while Glenn Maxwell and Nathan Ellis added one each to the tally.
Afghanistan’s innings got off to a shaky start, losing Rahmanullah Gurbaz for a duck in the first over. Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmat Shah struggled to find their rhythm, with both getting dismissed after scoring modest starts.
However, Atal and Omarzai steadied the ship, adding vital runs to help Afghanistan reach a defendable total. Afghanistan's captain Hashmatullah Shahidi was cautious throughout his innings, making just 20 from 49 balls before being dismissed by Zampa.
Australia’s chase of 274 will be a crucial one, with Afghanistan needing early breakthroughs to keep the game in their favor.
If Australia emerges victorious, they will seal their place in the semi-finals, sending Afghanistan out of the tournament.
However, if Afghanistan manages to defend their target, they will advance, leaving Australia’s hopes resting on the outcome of the South Africa vs. England match tomorrow.
Should rain intervene and wash out the game, Australia will qualify for the semi-finals, while Afghanistan's fate will hinge on that same encounter between South Africa and England.
Meanwhile, India and New Zealand have already secured their semi-final spots from Group A, making today’s match even more crucial for both Afghanistan and Australia.
Teams:
Australia: Steve Smith (captain), Matthew Short, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Spencer Johnson, Adam Zampa
Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi
