A crucial Group B Afghanistan vs Australia match took place at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, but rain affected the game, resulting in both teams getting one point each. Despite the match being abandoned, Australia has secured a spot in the semi-finals. Two of its matches were impacted by rain, one of which it was in a strong position to win.
Read This: Afghanistan vs Australia: Rain Alters Outcome as Australia Reaches Champions Trophy Semi-Final
In the match between South Africa and Australia, rain prevented even the toss from taking place. Meanwhile, Afghanistan set a target of 274 runs, and Australia managed to score 109 runs in 12.5 overs. Had the match reached the 20-over mark and Australia scored 14 more runs (123 in total), it would have won, eliminating Afghanistan from contention.
The Group B standings have created an interesting scenario. Afghanistan now has to wait for the result of the South Africa vs. England match on March 1 to determine its Champions Trophy Semi-Finals spot. Afghanistan has played three matches and earned three points—losing to South Africa, defeating England, and having the Australia match abandoned due to rain.
Similarly, South Africa also has three points. They defeated Afghanistan in their first match, while their game against Australia was washed out. Now, their final chance lies in the match against England.
If South Africa wins against England, they will top the group, and Australia, already in the semi-finals, will finish second—eliminating Afghanistan.
Champions Trophy Semi-Finals: Can the Afghan Team Make It Through?
However, if South Africa loses to England, Afghanistan’s qualification will depend on net run rate. Currently, Afghanistan has a net run rate of -0.99, while South Africa’s is significantly better at +2.14 after two matches.
If the South Africa vs. England match is also affected by rain, Afghanistan will be eliminated from the Champions Trophy Semi-Finals, and South Africa will qualify for the semi-finals while topping the group.
