LAHORE, Pakistan — The ICC Champions Trophy group-stage match between Afghanistan and Australia ended with no result after heavy rainfall forced the game to be abandoned in Lahore on Friday. Australia was well-placed at 109 for 1 in 12.5 overs, chasing 274, when the weather intervened, preventing further play.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board confirmed the abandonment, stating: “Afghanistan’s third ChampionsTrophy game against Australia has been abandoned due to heavy rainfall in Lahore. Both teams receive one point each.”
After choosing to bat first, Afghanistan put up a competitive total of 273 in their 50 overs, led by a strong knock from Sediqullah Atal (85 off 95 balls). Azmatullah Omarzai (67 off 63 balls) provided valuable support, while Ibrahim Zadran (22 off 28 balls) and captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (20 off 49 balls) chipped in.
Australia’s bowlers had mixed success, with Ben Dwarshuis (3/47 in 9 overs) leading the attack, while Adam Zampa (2/48 in 8 overs) also made key breakthroughs.
In response, Australia got off to a dominant start, with Travis Head (59 off 40 balls) scoring quickly alongside Matt Short (20 off 15 balls). Short was the only wicket to fall, caught by Gulbadin Naib off Azmatullah Omarzai. Steve Smith (19 off 22 balls) was at the crease when rain halted play.
With the match declared a no result, both teams shared one point each, which could impact their standings in the group stage. Australia, which had a strong chance of chasing the target, will be disappointed with the washout, while Afghanistan missed an opportunity to test their bowlers against a top-tier side.
Both teams will now look ahead to their remaining group-stage matches as they aim to secure a spot in the knockout rounds of the tournament. However, with rain playing a crucial role in Lahore, teams may have to prepare for further interruptions in the competition.
