Lahore (Web Desk): Afghanistan won the toss and decided to bat first in a high-stakes Champions Trophy Group B showdown against Australia being played at the Gaddafi Stadium today (Friday).
Debutant Afghanistan have a chance to seal a semi-final spot with a win today.
The team remains unchanged from their thrilling eight-run victory over England, a performance that marked a huge upset. However, their tournament got off to a rough start with a heavy 107-run loss to South Africa in their opening match.
Australia, led by Steve Smith, are also on the verge of qualification for the semi-finals with a win.
The Aussies have stuck with the same side that defeated England by five wickets in their opening clash, although their second game against South Africa was washed out due to rain.
With England already out of contention, South Africa will face them on Saturday in what will be their final group-stage match.
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
