The extremely anticipated match of the Champions Trophy 2025 between Afghanistan and Australia commenced in Lahore on Friday. It is a must-win encounter for Afghanistan, as a loss would see them eradicated from the race for the semifinals.
Hashmatullah Shahidi’s opts to bat first
Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi gained the toss and elected to bat first. He defined that the pitch had been beforehand used and was prone to decelerate because the match progressed, giving his bowlers a bonus within the second innings.
“We have now determined to bat first as a result of the wicket appears to be like good. It’s a used pitch, and since England and Australia have already performed on it, it’s going to probably decelerate within the second half. Hopefully, our spinners will make an affect,” stated Shahidi on the toss.
Steve Smith reveals why Australia would’ve bowled first
Alternatively, Australian skipper Steve Smith remained unfazed after dropping the toss. He revealed that Australia would have opted to bowl first on account of unsure overhead circumstances and the anticipated dew issue within the second innings.
“We’d have bowled first, contemplating the unsure overhead circumstances and the dew issue. The crew is in fine condition, and we anticipate a aggressive contest. We’re right here with intent and aggression, prepared to start. No adjustments in our lineup,” stated Smith on the toss.
Additionally READ: Wasim Akram predicts the winner of Afghanistan vs Australia match in Champions Trophy 2025
Taking part in XI for each groups
Australia: Matthew Quick, Travis Head, Steven Smith (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson
Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi
