Washout confirms Australia’s Champions Trophy semi-final place

Australia has clinched a spot in the semi-finals of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy after their Group B clash against Afghanistan was washed out due to relentless rain in Lahore.

The no-result secures Australia four points from three matches, sending them into the tournament’s semi-finals for the first time since 2009.

Set a target of 274 at Gaddafi Stadium, Australia was cruising at 109-1 in just 12.5 overs when the rain arrived, with top sportsbooks listing them as -125 favorites.

Travis Head dominated the chase, smashing a rapid half-century off just 34 balls to remain unbeaten on 59, while skipper Steve Smith was on 19 when the match was called off.

Matthew Short, who contributed 20 runs, suffered a thigh injury and is in doubt for the knockout stage.

Afghanistan finishes the group stage with three points and now faces an anxious wait.

Their only hope of progressing is for England to produce a massive win over South Africa in Karachi to edge ahead on net run rate.

With a -0.99 NRR, Afghanistan trails South Africa’s commanding 2.14, despite pulling off a thrilling eight-run victory over England earlier in the tournament.

Earlier, Afghanistan put together a competitive total, reaching 273 before being bowled out in their allotted 50 overs.

Sediqullah Atal led the way with an impressive 85, while Azmatullah Omarzai provided fireworks with a blistering 67, including five sixes.

Ben Dwarshuis spearheaded Australia’s bowling effort, finishing with 3-47, while Adam Zampa and Spencer Johnson each chipped in with two wickets.

“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 remains optimistic about his team’s chances.

“You never know. We still have hopes, and we are waiting for that next game. Hopefully, England win big! Anything can happen in cricket,” he said.

The semi-final matchups will be locked in after India, currently listed at -145 with top cricket betting sites, takes on New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday.

The Group A winner will face the second-place finisher from Group B. Regardless of their final standing, India is set to play the first semi-final in Dubai on March 4, while the second semi-final will be held in Lahore on March 5.