The PCB faced criticism after the Australia vs. Afghanistan match in Lahore was abandoned due to rain. Australia was ahead at 109 for 1 when play was halted. The venue’s drainage system has been condemned, prompting fans to question its suitability for such a major tournament. Afghanistan now faces a challenging path to semi-final qualification, contingent upon other teams’ performances.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) faced strong criticism regarding the conditions at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore after the Australia versus Afghanistan match was abandoned due to rain. Despite Australia making a solid start at 109 for 1 in 12.5 overs, persistent rainfall rendered the pitch unplayable, as several wet patches remained on the field despite the efforts of the ground staff.
Australia’s match against Afghanistan was crucial for their advancement in the Champions Trophy, ultimately resulting in a washout that granted them four points. This followed another match against South Africa that was similarly affected by weather. Fans expressed their discontent with the venue’s inadequate drainage system, which they deemed unfit for a tournament of such significance.
Before the rain interrupted play, Australia’s Travis Head stood out with an impressive 59 runs from 40 balls, showcasing his aggression against the Afghan bowlers. Captain Steve Smith contributed an unbeaten 19 runs. The match was initially poised for a thrilling encounter, with Australia chasing a target of 274 runs set by Afghanistan.
Afghanistan batted first, compiling a competitive score of 273 runs, significantly aided by Sediqullah Atal’s 85 runs and a late blitz from Azmatullah Omarzai, who scored 67 runs off 63 balls. Their efforts led to a respectable total, despite some early batting challenges, with Omarzai displaying remarkable power in his strokes, including a massive six that traveled over 102 meters.
With Australia moving forward to the knockout phase, Afghanistan’s potential for qualification now depends on the outcome of subsequent matches, notably the clash between South Africa and England. Afghanistan is left in a precarious position, with an unfavorable net run-rate that complicates their chances of progression to the semi-finals.
The abandonment of the Australia versus Afghanistan match due to inadequate preparation and drainage at Gaddafi Stadium has sparked widespread criticism of the PCB. Despite a promising start from Australia, the weather ultimately dictated the match’s outcome, leaving both teams with significant implications for their tournament standings. Fans are calling for better conditions to support high-stakes matches in the future.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
