By Shreyanka Nandan
The much-awaited Australia vs Afghanistan Champions Trophy match in Lahore was rain-washed, and it led to an outrage over the deplorable state of Gaddafi Stadium’s drainage system. The rain did not last more than 30 minutes, but the ground was left with huge puddles and patches of wet ground, rendering it unplayable. After the inspection, the ground staff put in their best efforts but seeing the condition of the ground, the umpires had no other choice except to leave the ground.
Australia qualified for the semi-finals with points earned prior in the match before rain against South Africa. Afghanistan, on the other hand, has a difficult journey ahead. Their last hope of qualification lies with Saturday’s game between South Africa and England, a victory for England can bring the net run rate (NRR) into the picture, but Afghanistan’s current NRR of 0.99 renders their chances minimal unless South Africa is beaten by a record amount exceeding 207 runs.
Australia, before the rain break, secured 109/1 in 12.5 overs and were well-placed in pursuit of Afghanistan’s 274-run total. Travis Head was in devastating form in the opening, he hammered 59 out of 40 balls with nine fours and one six alone. He was given a lifeline in the early stage when Rashid Khan spilled a catch when Head was on 6 runs,he made Afghanistan toil by targeting the bowlers, particularly Fazalhaq Farooqi. Captain Steve Smith remained not out on 19 from 22 balls.
Earlier, Afghanistan made a battling total, after the impressive 85 from Sediqullah Atal and a late power-hitting display by Azmatullah Omarzai, with a blast of 67 off 63 balls, including a 102-meter six. Australia’s bowlers had an inconsistency that day. Spencer Johnson (2/49) and Ben Dwarshuis (3/47) counted crucial wickets but the team finally conceded 37 runs with 17 wides.
However, the match did not gain attention, the topic of conversation was the poor drainage management at the stadium. Supporters in the auditorium were angry that a world-class stadium couldn’t cope with a brief shower of rain. The supporters labeled the situation as “pathetic” and “shameful.” The counteraction placed pressure on Pakistan’s cricket board as they were questioned over the preparation of the stadium to host big international games.