Australia into Champions Trophy semi-finals after washout

Australia has secured a spot in the semi-finals of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy after their Group B match against Afghanistan was abandoned due to persistent rain in Lahore.

The washout gives Australia four points from three games, marking their first semi-final qualification in the tournament since 2009.

Chasing a target of 274 at Gaddafi Stadium, Australia was well-positioned as the $1.25 bookmaker favourites at 109-1 in just 12.5 overs before rain stopped play.

Opener Travis Head led the charge with a blistering 34-ball half-century, finishing unbeaten on 59, while captain Steve Smith was on 19 when the match was called off.

Matthew Short, who contributed 20, suffered a thigh injury and remains in doubt for the semi-final.

Afghanistan, who ended the group stage with three points, now depend on England to beat South Africa by a significant margin in Karachi to qualify on net run rate.

Afghanistan’s -0.99 NRR is well behind South Africa’s 2.14, despite their impressive eight-run victory over England earlier in the tournament.

Earlier in the day, Afghanistan posted 273 all out in 50 overs after opting to bat first.

Sediqullah Atal top-scored with 85, while Azmatullah Omarzai smashed 67, including five sixes.

Australia’s bowling attack saw Ben Dwarshuis take 3-47, while Adam Zampa and Spencer Johnson picked up two wickets each.

“It’s a good result, and that’s what we were after at the start of the tournament,” Smith said.

“To finish in the top two and head to the semis, it’s satisfying so far.”

Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi remained hopeful, stating, “You never know. We still have hopes, and we are waiting for that next game. Hopefully, England win big! Anything can happen in cricket.”

The semi-final lineup will be determined after India, who are currently $1.45 with the top cricket betting sites, face New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday, with the top team in Group A facing the second-placed team in Group B.

Regardless of their position, India will play the first semi-final in Dubai on March 4, while the second semi-final will take place in Lahore on March 5.

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