PCB criticized for 'shameful' and 'disappointing' preparations as AFG vs AUS match cancelled in Lahore: 'Inexcusable'

Australia advanced to the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy following the abandonment of their Group B match against Afghanistan due to rain in Lahore. The game came to a halt with Australia comfortably placed at 109/1 in 12.5 overs while chasing a target of 274. Despite the ground staff's best efforts to make the field playable, persistent wet patches led to the umpires calling off the match after an inspection.

With this result, Australia advanced to the knockout stage with four points, having already seen their previous fixture against South Africa washed out. However, the preparations in Lahore have come under the scanner, with many fans criticising the venue's readiness for the marquee tournament.

While the rain lasted close to half-an-hour. Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium came under the scanner for the multiple puddles forming across the ground, and a lack of efficient drainage system.

Here's how fans reacted:

Meanwhile, Afghanistan's chances of making the final four now hinge on the outcome of Saturday’s clash between South Africa and England. A victory for South Africa will see them top the group, while an England win would result in a net run-rate (NRR) battle between South Africa and Afghanistan.

However, Afghanistan’s current NRR of -0.99 makes qualification a near impossibility unless South Africa suffer a heavy defeat by over 207 runs.

Before the rain interruption, Travis Head was in blistering form, racing to 59 off 40 balls, featuring nine fours and a six. The aggressive opener made the most of a dropped catch by Rashid Khan when he was on six and dominated the Afghan bowlers, particularly taking apart Fazalhaq Farooqi for 28 runs off 17 deliveries.

Skipper Steve Smith played a supporting role, remaining unbeaten on 19 off 22 balls.

Earlier, Afghanistan posted a competitive 273, thanks to a stellar knock of 85 from Sediqullah Atal and a late onslaught by Azmatullah Omarzai. Atal steadied the innings following early setbacks, building a vital 68-run partnership with Hashmatullah Shahidi. However, it was Omarzai’s explosive 67 off 63 balls that propelled Afghanistan past 270.

His innings included five sixes, including towering 102-meter hit over midwicket against Nathan Ellis.

Australia’s bowlers had a mixed outing, with Spencer Johnson (2/49) striking early, while Ben Dwarshuis (3/47) made key breakthroughs at the death. Extras proved costly for the defending champions, as they conceded 37 runs, including 17 wides.

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