ICC Player Rankings ODI: Azmatullah Omarzai (L) the new no.1 ranked ODI All-Rounder and Shubman Gill (R) of India  the no.1 ranked ODI batter | Image Credits: X (Sportskeeda) and News 18

ICC Player Rankings ODI: Azmatullah Omarzai, Afghanistan's rising star, has topped the ICC ODI all-rounder rankings after an impressive campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy. Omarzai, who is only 25 years old, has surpassed fellow veteran Mohammad Nabi to take the top spot, reflecting his impressive performance on the international stage.

ICC Player Rankings ODI: Azmatullah Umarzai, Afghanistan's rising star, has topped the ICC ODI all-rounder rankings after an impressive campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy. Umarzai, who is only 25 years old, has surpassed fellow veteran Mohammad Nabi to take the top spot, reflecting his impressive performance on the international stage. Shubman Gill has also retained his number 1 spot while the trio of Virat Kohli, Mohammad Shami and Rohit Sharma have also witnessed improvements in the rankings

ICC Rankings 2025: Azmatullah Omarzai becomes no 1 ranked all-rounder, Shubman Gill retains ODI batsman crown, Rohit-Virat also benefit

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2025 ICC Champions Trophy : The Champions Trophy 2025 Group-B match between Afghanistan and Australia got washed out due to rain at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. As a result, the Aussies have secured their qualification for the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy. South Africa have also benefitted from this match getting washed out, as their place in the knockout phase of the tournament has also been guaranteed. 
In this encounter, the Hashmatullah Shahidi-led side scored 273 runs while batting first and the Aussies needed to score 274 runs to win this match. But, due to the rain interruption, they weren't able to chase down the total and when the rain arrived, the Aussies had scored 109 runs at the loss of one wicket in 12.5 overs. Opening batter Travis Head played a flamboyant knock of 59 runs and skipper Steven Smith scored 19 runs. 
<h2>Australia through to the semi-finals, Afghanistan in trouble</h2>
Afghanistan have suffered the most due to this match getting called off due to rain. Both teams shared one point a piece and this meant that the Hashmatullah Shahidi-led side ended the group phase with three points to their name while Australia, on the other hand, got four points to their name and this ensured their qualification for the knockout phase. 
<h2>Can Afghanistan still qualify for the Semi Finals?</h2>
The Afghan Atalans are still not eliminated from the tournament. If England manage to defeat South Africa in the final Group-B fixture, then the tournament debutants will go through to the semis. However, there's a huge difference in the net run-rate (NRR) between Afghanistan &amp; South Africa, so the Proteas would just have to secure a win or if they get defeated, then they will have to avoid getting defeated by a big margin. 
<h2>Updated Champions Trophy Group-B Points Table</h2>
<table class="table" height="95" style="width: 71.8572%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 30.9927%;">Team</td>
<td style="width: 11.128%;">Matches Played</td>
<td style="width: 11.6344%;">Won</td>
<td style="width: 10.8319%;">Lost</td>
<td style="width: 15.6478%;">Points</td>
<td style="width: 17.3156%;">NRR</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 30.9927%;">Australia (Q)</td>
<td style="width: 11.128%;">3</td>
<td style="width: 11.6344%;">1</td>
<td style="width: 10.8319%;">0</td>
<td style="width: 15.6478%;">4</td>
<td style="width: 17.3156%;">+0.475</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 30.9927%;">South Africa</td>
<td style="width: 11.128%;">2</td>
<td style="width: 11.6344%;">1</td>
<td style="width: 10.8319%;">0</td>
<td style="width: 15.6478%;">3</td>
<td style="width: 17.3156%;">+2.140</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 30.9927%;">Afghanistan</td>
<td style="width: 11.128%;">3</td>
<td style="width: 11.6344%;">1</td>
<td style="width: 10.8319%;">1</td>
<td style="width: 15.6478%;">3</td>
<td style="width: 17.3156%;">-0.990</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 30.9927%;">England (E)</td>
<td style="width: 11.128%;">2</td>
<td style="width: 11.6344%;">0</td>
<td style="width: 10.8319%;">2</td>
<td style="width: 15.6478%;">0</td>
<td style="width: 17.3156%;">-0.305</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
(Updated after Afghanistan vs Australia Champions Trophy 2025 Group-B match on February 28)
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Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/rsa-vs-eng-will-the-national-stadium-of-karachi-favor-batters-or-bowlers-check-out-the-pitch-reports/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">RSA vs ENG: Will the National Stadium of Karachi favor batters or bowlers? Check-out the pitch reports</a>

2025 ICC Champions Trophy: Travis Head and Steven Smith put on 65 before having to go off for rain, Afghanistan vs Australia, Champions Trophy, Lahore, February 28, 2025 | ICC/Getty Images

2025 ICC Champions Trophy: Rain once again hampered the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025, as the Group B match between Afghanistan and Australia in Lahore was called off on Friday. This washout was beneficial for Australia as they are through to the semi-finals of the tournament, while Afghanistan will have to rely on the outcome of tomorrow's match between South Africa & England

AFG vs AUS: Rain washes out the Afghanistan vs Australia match, Australia qualify for the Semi-finals | Updated Points Table

afg-vs-aus-rain-washes-out-the-afghanistan-vs-australia-match-australia-qualify-for-the-semi-finals-updated-points-table

Australia fast bowler Spencer Johnson has taken his team off to a flying start with the ball in the ongoing game against Afghanistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The match between the two teams is taking place at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. 
Afghanistan won the toss and opted to bat first. But it wasn't the kind of start that they would've wanted. Their opening batter, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, couldn't set the stage on fire as he was back in the hut, thanks to the brilliance of Spencer Johnson with the ball in the first over itself. 
Spencer Johnson came up with the magical ball, giving fans glimpses of Mitchell Starc. The left-arm pacer made Rahmanullah Gurbaz look clueless as he was back in the hut on the 5th ball of the innings as his poor tournament with the bat continued. 
Spencer Johnson bowled a searing yorker on off at 140.7kph, swinging in late. Rahmanullah Gurbaz was defeated by the pace as well as the late movement. He tried to dig it out but was late in putting his bat down. The ball went under the bat and crashed into the off-stump. 
<h2>Watch: Spencer Johnson bowls a searing yorker to remove Rahmanullah Gurbaz</h2>
Here's the video: 
https://x.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1895402614860488838
It was an ideal start for Australia in a must-win encounter. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who has been struggling to score runs, was back in the hut after scoring a five-ball duck. The pacer was elated with the way he got out as the Steve Smith-led was chuffed to bits. 
The match between Afghanistan and Australia in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is a must-win encounter for both teams. A win for either of the sides will take them into the semi-final of the tournament, while a loss would almost eliminate them from the tournament. 
Afghanistan are coming into the match on the back of a magnificent performance against England. They won their last game by 8 runs, while Australia, on the other hand, had a washout in their last league game.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/rcb-in-trouble-wpl-points-table-2025-after-gg-beat-rcb-by-6-wickets-check-who-has-orange-cap-purple-cap-/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">RCB in Trouble! WPL Points Table 2025 After GG beat RCB by 6 Wickets | Check Who has Orange Cap &amp; Purple Cap</a>

Spencer Johnson bowls a searing yorker to remove Rahmanullah Gurbaz {PC:X}

Australia fast bowler Spencer Johnson has taken his team off to a flying start with the ball in the ongoing game against Afghanistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Opening batter, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, couldn't set the stage on fire as he was back in the hut, thanks to the brilliance of Spencer Johnson

Watch: Spencer Johnson delivers the ball of the tournament to remove Rahmanullah Gurbaz in AFG vs AUS CT 2025

watch-spencer-johnson-delivers-the-ball-of-the-tournament-to-remove-rahmanullah-gurbaz-in-afg-vs-aus-ct-2025-

AUS vs AFG: Australia and Afghanistan, on hearing the names of the two teams, no comparison can be drawn between the playing stature of these two fine teams. Australia, on the other hand, is among the oldest nations to have adopted the game of cricket from the Englishmen, while Afghanistan is relatively new and started the game in the 21st century. 
However, citing brilliance not only in the 50-over format or in limited-overs cricket, Australia has been a heavyweight in the ICC events, with 6 World Cups under their belt as well as 2 <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ICC_Champions_Trophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Champions Trophies</a>, while Afghanistan is playing their first-ever Champions Trophy while they have also begun to perform decently in the ODI World Cup. 
<h2 dir="ltr">AUS vs AFG: A trivial list of the past 4 matches played between these two nations</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr">1. Australia vs Afghanistan at Sharjah in 2012</h3>
This was the first time Australia played against Afghanistan and also just the second match for Afghanistan against a full member nation, after their first match being against Pakistan. 
Batting First Australia, led by Michael Clarke, went on to put in a respectable total of 272, while Afghanistan, in an attempt to chase it down, kept losing wickets at regular intervals and was dismissed for 206 runs. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glenn_Maxwell" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenn Maxwell</a> and Mohammed Nabi remain the only players from either team to be part of the 2025 Champions Trophy squad as well. 
<h3 dir="ltr">2. Australia’s biggest 275-run victory over Afghanistan in World Cup 2015</h3>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202502/image_430x256_67c13dcaa94a8.jpg" alt="David Warner's iconic 178 in World Cup 2015" width="762" height="474">
This marked Australia and Afghanistan’s rivalry in World Cups, as in 2015 this was the first time Aussies played against the Asian underdogs in an ICC event. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Warner_(cricketer)" target="_blank" rel="noopener">David Warner </a>bamboozled all with his stunning striking of the white ball, as he scored a stunning 178 off just 133 balls. 
Steven Smith’s 95 and Maxwell’s 88 off just 39 balls marked the Aussies' score of 417, while the Afghans were bowled out for just 142 runs, marking a huge defeat in the history of the World Cup. 
<h3 dir="ltr">3. AUS vs AFG in World Cup 2019</h3>
Another loose performance from Afghanistan in the 2019 ODI World Cup when the nation was yet to develop its sense of dominance in the longer limited-overs format. Australia chased down a minor target of 208 runs, with skipper Finch and David Warner all scoring half-centuries, while Glenn Maxwell once again finished it off in style with a boundary on the first ball he faced. 
<h3 dir="ltr">4. The Maxwell masterclass in World Cup 2023</h3>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202502/image_430x256_67c13e6a008e8.jpg" alt="Glenn Maxwell's iconic double-century to win" width="800" height="498">
The World Champions Australia’s all hopes would have been shattered that very day if they had lost the neck-and-neck thriller against Afghanistan in the ODI World Cup of 2023, where the men in yellow lifted their 6th World title. 
All thanks to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mujeeb_Ur_Rahman" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mujeeb ur Rehman Zadran</a>, who dropped a simple catch of Glenn Maxwell when Australia was 102 for 7, as Maxwell, alongside Pat Cummins, batted throughout the innings and went on to score a terrific 201* with a limp foot as they showered sixes all around the park. 
Cummins, the skipper, played a hand of 12 of just 68 balls, while Maxwell’s iconic 128-ball double-century was enough to take Aussie over the line to a famous victory. 
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/2025-icc-champions-trophy-qualification-scenarios-from-group-b-ahead-of-the-australia-vs-south-africa-clash/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2025 ICC Champions Trophy Group B Qualification Scenarios</a>

AUS vs AFG: Previous encounters between Australia and Afghanistan in the ODI format

Here is a general trivia of all the four encounters between the two rivals Australia and Afghanistan in the longer-limited-overs format.

AUS vs AFG: A Brief Trivia of Their Previous Encounters in the ODI Format

aus-vs-afg-a-brief-trivia-of-their-previous-encounters-in-the-odi-format

AUS vs AFG Dream11 Prediction: Steven Smith-led team Australia will square off with Hashmatullah Shahidi-led Afghanistan today on 28th February at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore for match number 10 of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The contest is set to begin at 2:30 PM IST.
Whenever we hear Afghanistan and Australia, the first thing to strike in the mind is the miraculous innings of Glenn Maxwell in the 2023 World Cup in Mumbai. From 7 down under 91 runs in a chase of 292, Glenn Maxwell single-handedly scored 201* runs and won the game for Australia. 
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202502/image_430x256_67c132c9cc1e9.jpg" alt="">
Months later, at the T20 World Cup in Kingstown, Afghanistan made history with a stunning upset, showcasing their rise in international cricket. Now, they face Australia again in Lahore, with a Champions Trophy semifinal spot on the line.
The scenario is straightforward: Australia will qualify with a win or if rain cancels the match. Afghanistan must win to secure their place. If the game is washed out, Afghanistan will move to 3 points but will need England to defeat South Africa by a big margin to stay in contention.
Afghanistan, famously known as the Giant-Killers, are very close to creating an impossible-looking spot from the Group B. The Australian side would be ready to take on Afghanistan for the qualification.
Below is the AUS vs AFG Dream11 Prediction for the 10th Match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025:
<h2>AUS vs AFG Match Details</h2>
Tournament- ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Match: Australia vs Afghanistan 10th Match Date &amp; Match Time: 28th February, 02:30 PM(IST) Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="india-vs-england-playing-11">AUS vs AFG Probable Playing 11</h2>
Australia Playing 11: Matthew Short, Travis Head, Steven Smith(c), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis(w), Alex Carey, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson
Afghanistan Playing 11: Rahmanullah Gurbaz(w), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi(c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="ind-vs-eng-dream-11-prediction-today-match">AUS vs AFG Dream11 Prediction</h2>
Control over spin will play a crucial role in the contest between Australia and Afghanistan. The surface in Lahore has supported mostly pacers but spinners have played vital role, making players like Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, and Adam Zampa valuable picks for the Dream11 team.
However, given the high-scoring nature of the venue, including pacers like Azmatullah Omarzai and Nathan Ellis, who can thrive in high-pressure situations, will also be beneficial. Additionally, considering the forecast for light rain, having adaptable all-rounders like Glenn Maxwell and Mohammad Nabi could make a significant difference.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="ind-vs-eng-dream-11-team">AUS vs AFG Dream11 Team</h2>
Wicketkeeper: Josh Inglis, Rahmanullah Gurbaz
Batters: Steven Smith, Travis Head, Ibrahim Zadran
All-Rounders: Mohammad Nabi, Matthew Short/Glenn Maxwell, Azmatullah Omarzai
Bowlers: Adam Zampa, Ben Bwarshuis/Nathan Ellis, Rahid Khan
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="ind-vs-eng-dream-11-prediction-captain-and-vice-captain">AUS vs AFG Dream11 Prediction: Captain And Vice-Captain</h2>
AUS vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Captain: Travis Head, Steven Smith, Azmatullah Omarzai
AUS vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Vice-Captain: Rashid Khan, Josh Inglis, Ibrahim Zadran
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="ind-vs-eng-head-to-head-in-od-is">AUS vs AFG Head to Head in ODIs</h2>
<ul>
<li>Matches: 4</li>
<li>Australia won: 4 </li>
<li>Afghanistan won: 0</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="ekana-cricket-stadium-pitch-report-india-vs-england">Gaddafi Stadium Pitch Report</h2>
The pitch at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore has been a paradise for batters in the Champions Trophy this season, with an impressive scoring rate of 6.83 runs per over. The surface is ideal for stroke-making, offering minimal assistance to spinners. While there hasn’t been much seam movement, Pacers may extract some spongy bounce from the deck.
The conditions are expected to remain consistent throughout the match, making chasing a preferred option. As a result, the toss-winning team is likely to opt for bowling first.

Afghanistan and Australia clash in Lahore for a Champions Trophy semifinal spot. Australia qualifies with a win or washout, while Afghanistan must win or rely on England beating South Africa convincingly.

Afghanistan faces Australia in Lahore, aiming for a semifinal spot. Australia qualifies with a win, while Afghanistan depends on victory or England's help.

AUS vs AFG Dream11 Prediction 10th Match Champions Trophy 2025 | Australia vs Afghanistan Dream11 Team, Gaddafi Stadium Pitch Report

aus-vs-afg-dream11-prediction-10th-match-champions-trophy-2025-australia-vs-afghanistan-dream11-team-gaddafi-stadium-pitch-report

On Friday, February 28th, Two-time winners Australia will meet tournament debutants Afghanistan in the tenth match of the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025. The famous Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will host this high-intensity match between the two sides. This upcoming match is a must-win for both sides, as they hope to defeat each other and advance to the semi-finals.
In the last ICC Cricket match between the two sides in the 2024 T20 World Cup, the Afghans won by a margin of 21 runs over the Mighty Aussies, captained by All-Rounder Mitchell Marsh. The current ODI Cricket World Cup champions will attempt to avenge their humiliation against the extremely confident Hashmatullah Shahidi-led side on Friday and secure a semi-final spot. The Kangaroos began their campaign in the eight-team competition with a record-breaking five-wicket victory over Ashes rivals England in Lahore on February 22nd, but their second match against South Africa in Rawalpindi was rained out on Tuesday, February 25th.
The Spirited Afghanistan Cricket Team, on the other hand, will go into this crucial match having defeated England in an incredible match by eight runs in their second Group-B match on Wednesday, February 26 at the Gaddafi Stadium. The tournament newcomers will be hoping that Ibrahim Zadran and Azmatullah Omarzai maintain the incredible momentum from their strong performance versus the Jos Buttler-led side in the forthcoming important game against the Australians.
The 23-year-old Zadran played a record-breaking inning of 177 runs in the previous game, the highest by any player in the history of the competition while Omarzai registered a five-wicket-haul which helped their team secure an unforgettable win versus the Three Lions. 
The Afghans are really confident ahead of this tough fixture and they won't wanna commit the mistake of taking the Australians lightly as we all know how Mighty the Australians are. Ahead of this highly intensive clash, let's take a look at the weather report and the pitch report of the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
<h2>Afghanistan versus Australia Champions Trophy 2025: Weather Forecast of Lahore</h2>
The weather forecast for Lahore is not looking ideal for a Cricket match. The city is anticipated to experience cloudy skies with light showers during the afternoon &amp; early evening periods on the 28th of February
The probability of rain intervening with the match remains high in the early hours, which could lead to a delay in the toss and even a delayed start to the contest. The temperatures are expected to be chilly and shall hover around the 14-16 degrees Celsius region. 
<h2>Afghanistan versus Australia Champions Trophy 2025: Pitch Report of the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore</h2>
The pitch of the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore has a tendency to provide a lot of support to the batters, especially in the first half of the match. The slow bowlers might get some help in the second inning but the seamers will have a huge say with the new ball, considering the overcast conditions during the match hours. 
The average first inning score at this ground has been 293 runs, so the toss-winning captain should opt to bat first and post a gigantic total on the board, which will be really hard for the opposition to chase down.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/pakistan-ends-champions-trophy-without-a-single-win-after-the-washout-vs-bangladesh-updated-points-table/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pakistan ends Champions Trophy without a single win after the washout vs Bangladesh, Updated Points Table</a>

Preparations in full swing at the Gaddafi Stadium ahead of the Champions Trophy, Lahore, January 23, 2025 | Image: Danyal Rasool

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will feature a pivotal match between Afghanistan and Australia on Friday, February 28 at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. However, there is a significant chance of rain throughout the match due to the gloomy clouds that are looming over it.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will feature a pivotal match between Afghanistan and Australia on Friday, February 28, at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. However, due to the gloomy clouds looming over the match, there is a significant chance of rain throughout.

Afghanistan vs Australia: Rain likely to play spoilsport in Lahore, checkout the Weather Report & Pitch Report

afghanistan-vs-australia-rain-likely-to-play-spoilsport-in-lahore-checkout-the-weather-report-pitch-report

The Afghanistan National Cricket Team's sensational win over England by a margin of eight runs in the Group-A fixture of the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 has won the hearts of all Cricket lovers across the globe as this win helped them stay alive in the race of qualifying for the semi-finals. Not only this, the win also meant that Jos Butter-led England got knocked out of the tournament. 
In this sensational clash played at the Gaddafi Stadium of Lahore, the Afghan Atalans batted first and put up a strong score of 325 runs on the board. Young Ibrahim Zadran played a magnificent knock of 177 runs, which is also the highest score ever recorded by a batter in the history of the tournament and this amazing knock allowed his team to cross the 300 run mark after losing two wickets in the powerplay. 
The Three Lions, never looked comfortable and they eventually got bundled out for a score of 317 runs, and the Hashmatullah Shahidi-led side won the encounter and changed the equation of the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy. 
Now, South Africa, Australia, and Afghanistan are gonna fight it out versus each other for the two semi-finals spots in Group-A. The Proteas are the table toppers in the group and they are followed by Australia at the second place and the Afghans are at the third place with a Net Run Rate (NRR) of 0.160.
<h3>Afghanistan's victory changed the equation of the Champions Trophy Semi-Final</h3>
The Proteas and the Kangaroos are in the top two positions of Group-B of the eight-team tournament with three points each to their name. The Afghans play Australia next on Friday, 28th of February at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Their win over the Three Lions has left all three teams in Group-B in a tight spot as they are all set to play do-or-die matches in the upcoming fixtures. 
<h2>Afghanistan's semi-finals qualification scenario</h2>
Afghanistan will have to beat Australia to make it to the semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 for the first time ever in their Cricketing history. On the other hand, Australia will also qualify directly with a win over Afghanistan and South Africa will also be guaranteed qualification in the knockout phase. 
However, if Australia lose their last game versus the Hashmatullah Shahidi-led side, then they will have to depend on the result of South Africa's last match against England on March 1. On the other hand, if South Africa also loses against England, they will have to ensure that they have a better net run rate than the 2023 ODI World Cup winners to advance to the semi-finals. South Africa's net run rate is currently +2.140, while the net run rate of the Steven Smith-led team is +0.475.
<h2>India-New Zealand in the top 2 of the Group-A standings</h2>
Teams of India and New Zealand are in the top half of the table of Group-A of ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The match between the two teams is to be played on March 2, which will decide whether Team India will be at the top or second place in its Group-A. The top team of Group-A will face the second-placed team of Group-B in the semi-finals, while the second-placed team of Group-A will face the top-placed team of Group-B.
https://x.com/weRcricket/status/1894810776751481103
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/rcb-in-trouble-wpl-points-table-2025-after-gg-beat-rcb-by-6-wickets-check-who-has-orange-cap-purple-cap-/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">RCB in Trouble! WPL Points Table 2025 After GG beat RCB by 6 Wickets | Check Who has Orange Cap &amp; Purple Cap</a>

Afghanistan players rejoice in their win over England, Afghanistan vs England, Lahore, ICC Champions Trophy, February 26, 2025 | Image: AFP/Getty Images

Afghanistan's eight-run victory over England in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has kept them in the competition and put them in the running to reach the semifinals. They can make it to the event's final four in this way.

Afghanistan survived another day in the Champions Trophy 2025 by defeating England and knocking them out. They face Australia in their next fixture and they will have to win that match at all costs if they want to secure the semi finals berth.

Champions Trophy 2025: How can Afghanistan advance to the semi finals | Qualification Scenario

champions-trophy-2025-how-can-afghanistan-advance-to-the-semi-finals-qualification-scenario

England batter Joe Root gave his best with the bat against Afghanistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash. The match between the two teams took place on Wednesday (26th February) at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, which saw the Three Lions getting eliminated. 
England had a horrible outing in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 game against Afghanistan. The Jos Buttler-led side faced a disappointing 8-run loss in the match and it saw them getting eliminated from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, having lost their first game of the tournament against Australia. 
In the game against Afghanistan, England was off to a great start with the ball as they picked three quick wickets, and it seemed they would end their innings early. But Ibrahim Zadran came up with the massive innings and put England on the backfoot with his heroics. 
Zadran played a gigantic innings of 177 runs, which is the highest individual score in the history of the ICC Champions Trophy. Along with the support from other batters, Afghanistan posted a massive total of 325 runs, which at one stage looked impossible. 
In the chase, England kept losing wickets at regular intervals but Joe Root fought hard. He kept his team in the hunt as he slammed a magnificent century, and with the way he was batting, it was expected that he would take his team home. 
But he perished at the crucial stage. The batter was back in the hut after scoring 120 runs off 111 balls, batting at a strike rate of over 108 with 11 boundaries and 1 six in his innings. However, even after he got out, England had a chance to win the game. 
But the lower order couldn't contribute as England bottled down a chase. But in what was the heartwrenching moment, Joe Root was seen crying in the dressing room. The batter was sitting along Jos Buttler and was seen getting emotional as the video went viral on the internet. 
Also Read:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/rohit-sharma-s-injury-takes-a-serious-turn-ahead-of-the-new-zealand-clash-and-doubtful-for-icc-champions-trophy-2025-clash-/"> </a><a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/rohit-sharma-s-injury-takes-a-serious-turn-ahead-of-the-new-zealand-clash-and-doubtful-for-icc-champions-trophy-2025-clash-/">Rohit Sharma's injury takes a serious turn ahead of the New Zealand clash, and doubtful for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash</a>
<h2>Watch: Joe Root cries in dressing room as England losses to Afghanistan</h2>
https://x.com/Manan_Vk/status/1894798340522418518

Joe Root crying after England's loss to Afghanistan in ICC Champions Trophy 2025 {PC:X}

England kept losing wickets at regular intervals but Joe Root fought hard.

England batter Joe Root gave his best with the bat against Afghanistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash.

Watch: Joe Root cries in a dressing room as Afghanistan eliminates England from ICC Champions Trophy 2025

watch-joe-root-cries-in-a-dressing-room-as-afghanistan-eliminates-england-from-icc-champions-trophy-2025-

AFG vs ENG: What a Thriller! AFGHANISTAN have defeated ENGLAND in the last ball thriller and the doors of Semifinal Qualification are still open for the Afghans. Incredible scenes from LAHORE and Afghanistan have done it again in another ICC event.
That is what happens when two quality international teams clash in an all-important match. A record-breaking innings from Zadran, followed by a crucial 5-wicket haul by Azmattulah Omarzai, helped Afghanistan to get the better of England in an important match. 
Let's take a look at the Match report of AFGHANISTAN vs ENGLAND match and ICC Champions Trophy Points table 2025:
<h2>AFG vs ENG Match Report</h2>
Afghanistan’s innings began with a challenging start as they lost three early wickets for just 37 runs. Jofra Archer bowled a fiery opening spell, dismissing Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sediqullah Atal, and Rahmat Shah. Facing this early setback, Ibrahim Zadran and captain Hashmatullah Shahidi worked to stabilize the innings.
Zadran reached his half-century in 65 balls, but after a steady partnership, Shahidi fell for 40 while trying to play an unorthodox shot against Adil Rashid. Azmatullah Omarzai then played a quick cameo, scoring 41 off 31 balls, keeping the scoreboard moving despite England's pace attack.  
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202502/image_430x256_67bf46beead53.jpg" alt="">
As Zadran settled in, he shifted gears after his century, needing just 28 more balls to reach 150. He, along with Mohammad Nabi, punished England’s bowlers, taking full advantage of missed chances and sloppy fielding. Zadran’s powerful stroke play, including a six and three consecutive boundaries off Archer, helped Afghanistan accelerate in the final overs.
Nabi also played a vital role, smashing Joe Root for two sixes. Despite a tight final over by Liam Livingstone, Afghanistan managed to score 113 runs in the last 10 overs, finishing their innings at a competitive 325 for 7. Ibrahim Zadran’s incredible 177 set a new ICC Champions Trophy record, surpassing the previous best. His knock also made him the second player in this edition to cross 150, after Duckett’s 165.
In the chase, again, it was a sloppy start for England as they lost Phil Salt and Jamie Smith under 30 runs. Then, Duckett and Joe Root ensured the next 10 overs with no casualties. Last match hero Ben Duckett just started to accelerate when Rashid Khan found his leg before the wickets. 
Harry Brook got a good start again but failed to capitalize on it. England were under pressure all of a sudden, but Jos Buttler came, poured calmness, and put the pressure back on Afghanistan. Azmatullah was exceptional today as he got the crucial wickets of Jos Buttler in the middle and Joe Root in the death overs. Joe Root, before getting out, smashed an exceptional century with a strike rate over 100. 
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202502/image_430x256_67bf46c2c28aa.jpg" alt="">
It looked for once that Afghanistan might pull it after Root's wicket, but Jamie Overton and Jofra Archer added valuable runs, and England were on the top! Just then, threw a regulation catch to the long on, and Afghanistan were pumped again. Fazalhaq and Omarzai didn't give any pace to the ball, and Jofra lost his wicket in search of a SIX as well. 
It was all done and dusted for them and disciplined bowling from Afghan bowlers didn't make any mistake! Afghanistan defeated England by 8 runs. England are now eliminated from the semifinal race.
<h2>ICC CHAMPIONS TROPHY POINTS TABLE 2025</h2>
<table class="table cb-srs-pnts" border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 83.22%; background-color: #F6E7E7;">
<thead>
<tr class="cb-srs-gray-strip ">
<th class="cb-srs-pnts-th text-left" style="width: 34.1538%;">Group A</th>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" title="Matches Played" style="width: 8.30769%;">Mat</td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" title="Matches Won" style="width: 9.84615%;">Won</td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" title="Matches Lost" style="width: 9.23077%;">Lost</td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" title="Matches Tied" style="width: 9.23077%;">Tied</td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" title="Matches with No Result" style="width: 7.07692%;">NR</td>
<th class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" title="Match Points" style="width: 7.69231%;">Pts</th>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" title="Net Run Rate" style="width: 14.4615%;">NRR</td>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr class="">
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-name" style="width: 34.1538%;">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-100">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-84">New Zealand  (Q)</div>
</div>
</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.30769%;">2</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 9.84615%;">2</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 9.23077%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 9.23077%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 7.07692%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-bold" style="width: 7.69231%;">4</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 14.4615%;">+0.863</td>
</tr>
<tr class="">
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-name" style="width: 34.1538%;">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-100">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-84">India  (Q)</div>
</div>
</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.30769%;">2</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 9.84615%;">2</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 9.23077%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 9.23077%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 7.07692%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-bold" style="width: 7.69231%;">4</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 14.4615%;">+0.647</td>
</tr>
<tr class="">
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-name" style="width: 34.1538%;">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-100">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-84">Bangladesh  (E)</div>
</div>
</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.30769%;">2</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 9.84615%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 9.23077%;">2</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 9.23077%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 7.07692%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-bold" style="width: 7.69231%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 14.4615%;">-0.443</td>
</tr>
<tr class="">
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-name" style="width: 34.1538%;">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-100">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-84">Pakistan  (E)</div>
</div>
</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.30769%;">2</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 9.84615%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 9.23077%;">2</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 9.23077%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 7.07692%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-bold" style="width: 7.69231%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 14.4615%;">-1.087</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table class="table cb-srs-pnts" border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 83.3333%; background-color: rgb(222, 229, 247); height: 100px;">
<thead>
<tr class="cb-srs-gray-strip " style="height: 20px;">
<th class="cb-srs-pnts-th text-left" style="width: 26.5517%; height: 20px;">Group B</th>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" title="Matches Played" style="width: 8.96552%; height: 20px;">Mat</td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" title="Matches Won" style="width: 11.0345%; height: 20px;">Won</td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" title="Matches Lost" style="width: 10.3448%; height: 20px;">Lost</td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" title="Matches Tied" style="width: 10.3448%; height: 20px;">Tied</td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" title="Matches with No Result" style="width: 7.93103%; height: 20px;">NR</td>
<th class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" title="Match Points" style="width: 8.62069%; height: 20px;">Pts</th>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" title="Net Run Rate" style="width: 16.2069%; height: 20px;">NRR</td>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr class="" style="height: 20px;">
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-name" style="width: 26.5517%; height: 20px;">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-100">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-84">South Africa</div>
</div>
</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.96552%; height: 20px;">2</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 11.0345%; height: 20px;">1</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.3448%; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.3448%; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 7.93103%; height: 20px;">1</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-bold" style="width: 8.62069%; height: 20px;">3</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 16.2069%; height: 20px;">+2.140</td>
</tr>
<tr class="" style="height: 20px;">
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-name" style="width: 26.5517%; height: 20px;">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-100">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-84">Australia</div>
</div>
</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.96552%; height: 20px;">2</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 11.0345%; height: 20px;">1</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.3448%; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.3448%; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 7.93103%; height: 20px;">1</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-bold" style="width: 8.62069%; height: 20px;">3</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 16.2069%; height: 20px;">+0.475</td>
</tr>
<tr class="" style="height: 20px;">
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-name" style="width: 26.5517%; height: 20px;">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-100">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-84">Afghanistan</div>
</div>
</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.96552%; height: 20px;">2</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 11.0345%; height: 20px;">1</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.3448%; height: 20px;">1</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.3448%; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 7.93103%; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-bold" style="width: 8.62069%; height: 20px;">2</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 16.2069%; height: 20px;">-0.990</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 26.5517%; height: 20px;">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-100">
<div class="cb-col cb-col-84">England  (E)</div>
</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 8.96552%; height: 20px;">2</td>
<td style="width: 11.0345%; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 10.3448%; height: 20px;">2</td>
<td style="width: 10.3448%; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 7.93103%; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 8.62069%; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 16.2069%; height: 20px;">-0.301</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Afghanistan triumphed in a last-ball thriller against England, keeping their semifinal hopes alive. Zadran’s record-breaking 177 and Omarzai’s crucial five-wicket haul secured another historic ICC event victory for Afghanistan in Lahore.

Afghanistan edged England in a dramatic last-ball finish, powered by Zadran’s 177 and Omarzai’s five-wicket spell. Check the ICC Champions trophy Points table here.

AFGHANISTAN beat ENGLAND by 8 runs! England Eliminated, Afghanistan Alive; Check the Updated ICC Champions Trophy Points table 2025

afghanistan-beat-england-by-8-runs-england-eliminated-afghanistan-alive-check-the-updated-icc-champions-trophy-points-table-2025

The eighth match of the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 is slated to be played between Afghanistan and England at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Wednesday, 26th of February. The game will commence from 2:30 PM IST (Indian Standard Time) onwards. 
This match is going to be really important for both teams as the winner of this game will get the chance to stay alive in the race of qualifying for the Semi-finals of the tournament and the loser will get eliminated from the tournament. 
Ahead of this exciting contesrlt, Afghanistan's elite leg spinner Rashid Khan has a brilliant chance of creating history in this match. He has a chance to create a massive world record if he manages to dismiss two English batters as he will complete 200 ODI wickets. 
He currently has 198 scalps to his name in 112 ODI matches so far and he takes two wickets versus the Three Lions, then he will complete a double century in the format. His best figures with the ball read 7-18 and the stats go on to show how important the 26-year-old has been for the Afghan Atalans. 
If he picks up two more wickets, he will write his name in the record books. No Afghani bowler tillbnow has been able to pick up 200 wickets for the National Team and Rashid has an amazing opportunity to become the first ever bowler from his nation to do so.
<h2>Top three bowlers to take the most wickets for Afghanistan in ODI Cricket</h2>
Rashid is currently the highest wicket taker for Afghanistan in One Day Internationals having dismissed 198 batters. He's followed by veteran off spinner Mohammad Nabi who has 174 wickets to his name in 171 matches. His best figures read 5-17. Right arm pacer Dawlat Zadran is ranked third in this list, with 115 scalps in 82 matches. 
<h2>The Afghanistan versus England match will be very important</h2>
The match between Afghanistan and England will be very important for both teams as they look to keep their hopes of making it to the semi-finals phase alive. Both these teams have played one match each in the Champions Trophy so far and have suffered defeat in it. England was defeated by Australia, while Afghanistan suffered a defeat against South Africa. If both the teams have to reach the semi-finals, then they will have to win the remaining matches at any cost.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/eng-vs-afg-weather-forecast-pitch-report-of-gaddafi-stadium-lahore-icc-champions-trophy-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ENG vs AFG Weather Forecast, Pitch Report of Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a>

Rashid Khan of Afghanistan in a training session | Image: Afghanistan Cricket Board

The upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 match will be played between Afghanistan & England and leg spinner Rashid Khan has a brilliant chance of scripting history in this game

Afghanistan vs England: Leg spinner Rashid Khan of Afghanistan has a brilliant chance of creating a massive world record in the upcoming Champions Trophy match versus England as he just needs to pick up two wickets to script history

Afghanistan vs England: Rashid Khan on the verge of creating a massive world record, just needs to do this..

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The Afghanistan national cricket team has been making waves in the cricketing world over the past decade, rising from affiliate status to full membership of the International Cricket Council (ICC) in just a few years.

Key Facts:
<ul>
 	<li>The Afghanistan team made their international debut in 2001 and were granted affiliate status by the ICC in 2010.
The team's first-ever international win came in 2010 against Scotland in the ICC World Cup Qualifiers.
Afghanistan achieve

Afghanistan

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