Fri Feb 28 17:37:46 UTC 2025: ## Rain Sends Australia to Champions Trophy Semi-Finals, Afghanistan’s Hopes Dwindle
**Lahore, Pakistan:** Australia secured their place in the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy 2025 despite their Group B match against Afghanistan being abandoned due to rain on Friday. With Australia comfortably placed at 109/1 in the 13th over, chasing 274, persistent rain rendered the Lahore pitch unplayable, resulting in a points-share.
Travis Head’s quickfire 59 not out provided a strong start for Australia before the downpour. Earlier, Afghanistan, electing to bat first, posted a competitive 273 all out thanks to fifties from Sediqullah Atal (85) and Azmatullah Omarzai (67). Ben Dwarshuis led the Australian bowling attack with 3 wickets for 47 runs.
The washout leaves Australia on four points, securing their semi-final berth. Afghanistan’s chances now hinge on a highly improbable England victory over South Africa with a significant margin.
First Piper 