Champions Trophy Digest: Afghanistan face Australia with an eye on semi-finals; hosts Pakistan exit in disappointment

Afghanistan will look to continue their fairy-tale run in the Champions Trophy as they gear up for a crucial clash against Australia in Lahore on Friday, knowing that a win would secure them a historic semi-final berth. Fresh from eliminating England with a thrilling eight-run victory, Afghanistan's confidence is soaring as they prepare to face the reigning world champions.
Skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi has urged his team to stay focused, emphasising that they will not burden themselves with thoughts of qualification but instead play positive cricket. "A win like this boosts confidence," said Shahidi. "We hope to beat Australia as well."
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Australia, meanwhile, remain well-placed for a semi-final spot after defeating England and having their game against South Africa washed out. Even if Friday's match is rained out, the Australians will progress, while Afghanistan will have to rely on net run rate or other results.
Star batter Ibrahim Zadran will be key to Afghanistan's hopes after his record-breaking 177-run innings against England. The 23-year-old, returning from injury, played a pivotal role in posting 325/7, which ultimately proved just enough to send England packing.
Marnus Labuschagne, speaking on Australia's preparations, acknowledged Afghanistan's growing reputation but remained confident that his side is "ready to go," despite limited outdoor training due to rain. "We'd love to win and silence the crowd," he added.


While Afghanistan chase history, hosts Pakistan's campaign ended in heartbreak as their final group match against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi was washed out without a ball being bowled. Their title defence ended with a whimper, finishing last in Group A without a single win.
Pakistan, who won the 2017 Champions Trophy, lost to New Zealand and India before the rain placed them at the bottom of the group points table. Captain Mohammad Rizwan admitted the team had fallen short of expectations. "We are upset and accepting that we didn't perform well," he said. "Hopefully, we will work harder and come back stronger."
For Bangladesh, who also exited the tournament, captain Najmul Hossain Shanto expressed frustration at not being able to play their final match. "We really wanted to play this match, but we can't do anything about the weather," he said.
India and New Zealand have already booked their semi-final spots from Group A, while South Africa, Australia and Afghanistan are vying for the remaining two spots in Group B. England have been knocked out.
With Afghanistan and Australia set for a high-stakes battle in Lahore, all eyes are on whether Afghanistan can pull off another giant-killing act and cement their place in the final four.