Lahore rain breaks hearts of Afghanistan fans (Source: AP Photos)
Afghanistan, who produced a spirited performance against England in the most-recent Champions Trophy fixture, were almost eliminated from the competition after rain played spoilsport in Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore during their clash against Australia on Friday. In the process, Australia have qualified for the Champions Trophy 2025 knockouts, where India and New Zealand have already made the cut.
Heartbreak For Afghanistan!
Even though Australia were in full control when the game was interrupted due to rain, tables could have been turned in Afghanistan's favour any time, with the likes of Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad, among others, in the mix. However, they did not get the opportunity to turn things around, as both captains decided to shake hands after poor drainage system in Lahore.
![[Watch] Rain Exposes Pakistan As Groundstaff Use Sponge To Dry Wet Outfield](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1740758422207_AUS_AFG.jpg?type=mq)
With four points in three matches, Australia are currently at the top of Group A. South Africa, who defeated Afghanistan by 107 runs, are second with three points in two matches. The Proteas will take on England, and only a big-margin defeat against Jos Buttler and his boys could take them out of the competition.
3 Called-Off Matches In 4 Days!
This has been a very unfortunate news for cricket fans, who have suffered to watch three matches without any results in the last four days. It all started with Australia versus South Africa, followed by Pakistan versus Bangladesh before Lahore washout.
Meanwhile, South Africa and England will go up against each other on Saturday at National Stadium, Karachi. Even if there is a washout, South Africa will join Australia to play alongside India and New Zealand.
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