The battle for a semi-final spot in the Champions Trophy 2025 heats up as Afghanistan and Australia lock horns at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Friday, setting the stage for a high-stakes clash in Group B.
The two sides have engaged in some gripping battles in recent ICC events, adding further intrigue to this contest. At the 2023 Men’s Cricket World Cup, a Glenn Maxwell masterclass guided Australia to victory. However, Afghanistan exacted revenge in another thriller at last year’s Men’s T20 World Cup.
Both teams overcame England in closely contested matches, setting up a high-intensity battle.
Recent form:
Afghanistan: Their form has been mixed, but they will enter this match against Australia brimming with confidence after defeating England on Wednesday. This victory followed a heavy 107-run loss to South Africa in their opening game. Before the Champions Trophy, Afghanistan showcased their credentials by winning four consecutive bilateral series against Ireland, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe.
Australia: The Aussies launched their campaign with a dramatic win over England before their crucial clash with South Africa was washed out. They entered the tournament in uncertain form, having been outplayed in a two-match series against Sri Lanka, losing 2-0. Compounding their challenge, they are without their world-class bowling trio—Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood—who are unavailable for various reasons.
Players in focus:
Afghanistan – Ibrahim Zadran
It’s impossible to overlook Afghanistan’s star opener after his magnificent 177 off 146 balls against England. While Afghanistan’s batting lineup has strengthened in recent years, Ibrahim remains a key pillar of their success. With Australia’s bowling attack lacking experience, his battle against their pacers will be crucial.
Australia – Spencer Johnson
Given Afghanistan’s tendency to bat first, Australia’s opening bowlers will play a decisive role. Johnson, who conceded 0/54 in seven overs against England, will be eager to turn his fortunes around. Dismissing Ibrahim Zadran early could be the key to Australia’s victory.
Squads:
Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Ikram Alikhil, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, AM Ghazanfar, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Farid Malik, Naveed Zadran.
Australia: Steve Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matthew Short, Adam Zampa.
