Introduction: AFG vs AUS
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 continues with an exciting encounter between Afghanistan and Australia in the tournament’s tenth match. Both teams are eager to secure a victory to enhance their standings in Group B.
Match Details: AFG vs AUS
Fixture: Afghanistan vs. Australia, Match 10
Date: February 28, 2025
Time: 2:30 PM IST
Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Match Preview: AFG vs AUS
Afghanistan enters this match with a boost of confidence after a thrilling 8-run victory over England. Ibrahim Zadran’s remarkable 177-run innings was pivotal in setting a competitive total. Australia, on the other hand, had their previous match against South Africa abandoned due to rain, leaving them eager to return to winning ways. Both teams have one win each in the tournament, making this match crucial for semifinal aspirations.
Head-to-Head Record: In ODI history, Afghanistan and Australia have faced each other four times, with Australia emerging victorious in all encounters. Afghanistan will be aiming to break this streak and register their first win against the Aussies.
Weather and Pitch Report: AFG vs AUS
Temperature: Approximately 19°C
Weather Forecast: Light rain is anticipated, which could influence match proceedings.
Pitch Behavior: The Gaddafi Stadium pitch is known to favor batsmen, offering a batting-friendly surface. Pace bowlers might find some assistance, especially under overcast conditions. The average first innings score here is around 301 runs. Teams chasing have a favorable record, with a winning percentage of 80%.
Where to Watch: AFG vs AUS
Cricket enthusiasts can catch the live action of the AFG vs. AUS match on Star Sports and Sports18 channels in India. For online streaming, the match will be available on the JioStar app and website. The game is scheduled to commence at 2:30 PM IST on February 28, 2025, at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Probable Playing XIs: AFG vs AUS
Afghanistan:
1. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Wicketkeeper)
2. Ibrahim Zadran
3. Sediqullah Atal
4. Rahmat Shah
5. Hashmatullah Shahidi (Captain)
6. Azmatullah Omarzai
7. Mohammad Nabi
8. Gulbadin Naib
9. Rashid Khan
10. Noor Ahmad
11. Fazalhaq Farooqi
Australia:
1. Matthew Short
2. Travis Head
3. Steven Smith (Captain)
4. Marnus Labuschagne
5. Josh Inglis (Wicketkeeper)
6. Alex Carey
7. Glenn Maxwell
8. Ben Dwarshuis
9. Nathan Ellis
10. Adam Zampa
11. Spencer Johnson
Fantasy Cricket Tips: AFG vs AUS
Captaincy Picks: AFG vs AUS
Travis Head: all the haven’t got much runs yet is a top candidate for captaincy.
Steven Smith: The experienced Australian captain anchors the batting lineup and is known for his consistency.
Top Picks: AFG vs AUS
M Nabi: A versatile all rounder, Nabi provides depth to both batting and bowling lineups of the team
M Labuschagne: Australia’s top notch middle order batsman and a handy spinner providing much needed stability to the team
Budget Picks: AFG vs AUS
Noor Ahmed: A dangerous leggie, Noor adds depth to Afghanistan’s lineup with his unmatched skills.
Ibrahim Zadran: Ibrahim’s stellar 177 run knock against England make him a valuable yet economical choice.
Dream11 Team Suggestions: AFG vs AUS
Team 1:
Wicketkeeper: Inglis
Batsmen: Head(Captain), I Zadran, Marnus Labuschagne
All-rounders: Glenn Maxwell, Mohammad Nabi(VC), Azmatullah Omarzai, M Short
Bowlers: Rashid Khan, Adam Zampa, Ben Dwarshius
Team 2:
Wicketkeeper: Gubaz, Inglis
Batsmen: Travis Head, Steven Smith (Captain), Ibrahim Zadran, Labuschagne (VC)
All-rounders: Mohammad Nabi, M Short
Bowlers: Rashid Khan, Zampa, Dwarshius
Players to Avoid: AFG vs AUS
Hashmatullah Shahidi: Despite being the captain, Shahidi has had limited impact in recent matches, making him a less favorable pick for fantasy teams.
Atal: got the chances but haven’t proved himself up get so is a bit rescue to put him in the 11
Match Prediction: AFG vs AUS
Afghanistan comes into this match with a high level of confidence after their stunning win over England. Ibrahim Zadran’s record-breaking 177-run innings has given their batting lineup a much-needed boost. With Rahmanullah Gurbaz at the top and all-rounders like Mohammad Nabi and Azmatullah Omarzai adding depth, Afghanistan has a well-rounded squad. Rashid Khan remains their biggest weapon with the ball, alongside Noor Ahmad and Fazalhaq Farooqi.
Australia, however, remains the stronger side on paper. Despite their rain-affected game against South Africa, their squad boasts quality players like Steven Smith, Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, and Adam Zampa. Their pace attack, including Nathan Ellis and Spencer Johnson, can exploit Afghanistan’s batting weaknesses.
The key battle will be between Afghanistan’s spinners and Australia’s aggressive batting lineup. If Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad can put pressure on the Aussies, Afghanistan could make a game out of it. However, Australia’s superior experience in big matches makes them the favorites.
Prediction: AFG vs AUS
Australia is expected to win, but Afghanistan could cause an upset if their spinners dominate