Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Date & Time: Friday, February 28, 2025 – 2:30 PM (IST)
Live Broadcast & Streaming: Sports18/Star Sports Network, JioHotstar
Match Overview
Afghanistan and Australia face off in a virtual quarterfinal, with the winner advancing to the semifinals and the loser exiting the tournament.
- Afghanistan are coming off a morale-boosting eight-run victory over England. Their batting clicked, and their bowlers defended a challenging total successfully. Earlier, they suffered a heavy defeat against South Africa.
- Australia chased down a mammoth 352-run target against England in their first match but saw their second game against South Africa washed out due to rain.
Afghanistan will take confidence from their T20 World Cup 2024 win over Australia, but they have yet to beat the Aussies in ODIs.
Teams Overview
Afghanistan
Strengths: A strong spin attack led by Rashid Khan and an in-form batting lineup, particularly Ibrahim Zadran.
Concerns: Inexperience in high-pressure knockout matches and struggles against high-pace bowling.
Australia
Strengths: A powerful batting unit that successfully chased 352 in their opening match, and a balanced bowling attack.
Concerns: A slightly weakened squad due to injuries, but they remain strong contenders.
Key Players to Watch
Afghanistan
Ibrahim Zadran – Scored a magnificent 177 off 146 balls against England. A key player at the top of the order.
Rashid Khan – Afghanistan’s trump card, capable of turning the game with both bat and ball.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz – Known for explosive starts in the powerplay.
Australia
Steve Smith – Experienced campaigner who can anchor the innings.
Glenn Maxwell – Can change the game with both his power-hitting and spin bowling.
Adam Zampa – Australia’s premier spinner, crucial for controlling the middle overs.
Head-to-Head Record (ODIs)
| Matches Played | Afghanistan Won | Australia Won | Tied | No Result |
| 4 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
First Meeting: August 25, 2012
Last Meeting: November 7, 2023
Probable Playing XIs
Afghanistan
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)
Ibrahim Zadran
Sediqullah Atal
Rahmat Shah
Hashmatullah Shahidi (c)
Azmatullah Omarzai
Mohammad Nabi
Gulbadin Naib
Rashid Khan
Fazalhaq Farooqi
Noor Ahmad
Australia
Matthew Short
Travis Head
Steve Smith (c)
Marnus Labuschagne
Josh Inglis (wk)
Alex Carey
Glenn Maxwell
Ben Dwarshuis
Nathan Ellis
Adam Zampa
Spencer Johnson
Pitch Report – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
The Gaddafi Stadium has produced high-scoring matches in the Champions Trophy 2025.
- Even bounce, favoring stroke play.
- First innings average score: 338
- Bowlers have little margin for error.
Expect another high-scoring contest, with batters enjoying the conditions.
Live Streaming
India:
- TV Channel: Sony Pictures Network (Specific channel to be announced)
- Live Streaming: SonyLIV app and website
Pakistan:
-
- TV Channel: Asports
- Live Streaming: Tamasha App, Tapmad
Match Predictions & Scenarios
Scenario 1: Afghanistan Bat First
Powerplay Score: 50-60
Total Score: 320-330
Prediction: Australia to win
Scenario 2: Australia Bat First
Powerplay Score: 50-60
Total Score: 350-360
Prediction: Australia to win
Overall Prediction: The team batting first will likely win, but Australia holds a slight edge due to their experience and depth.
The stakes are high, and both teams will be eager to secure their place in the semifinals.
