The highly anticipated match of the Champions Trophy 2025 between Afghanistan and Australia commenced in Lahore on Friday. This is a must-win encounter for Afghanistan, as a loss would see them eliminated from the race for the semifinals.

Hashmatullah Shahidi’s opts to bat first

Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi won the toss and elected to bat first. He explained that the pitch had been previously used and was likely to slow down as the match progressed, giving his bowlers an advantage in the second innings.

“We have decided to bat first because the wicket looks good. It is a used pitch, and since England and Australia have already played on it, it will likely slow down in the second half. Hopefully, our spinners will make an impact,” said Shahidi at the toss.

Steve Smith reveals why Australia would’ve bowled first

On the other hand, Australian skipper Steve Smith remained unfazed after losing the toss. He revealed that Australia would have opted to bowl first due to uncertain overhead conditions and the expected dew factor in the second innings.

“We would have bowled first, considering the uncertain overhead conditions and the dew factor. The team is in good shape, and we expect a competitive contest. We are here with intent and aggression, ready to begin. No changes in our lineup,” said Smith at the toss.

Also READ: Wasim Akram predicts the winner of Afghanistan vs Australia match in Champions Trophy 2025

Playing XI for both teams

Australia: Matthew Short, Travis Head, Steven Smith (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson

Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi

Also READ: AFG vs AUS: Lahore Weather Forecast for Afghanistan vs Australia, Match 10 | ICC Champions Trophy 2025

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