Sediqullah Atal and Azmatullah Omarzai struck crucial half-centuries to help Afghanistan post a competitive total of 273 against Australia in their decisive ICC Champions Trophy encounter on Friday.

Atal led the charge with a well-constructed 85 off 95 balls, featuring six fours and three sixes, while Omarzai provided a late flourish, scoring 67 off 63 deliveries at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Afghanistan were bowled out at the end of their allotted 50 overs, setting Australia a target of 274 to secure a semi-final berth.

The winner of this fixture will finish in the top two of Group B and advance to the knockout stage.

Afghanistan’s Innings

Opting to bat first in overcast conditions, Afghanistan suffered an early setback as opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz fell for a duck in the first over, dismissed by Spencer Johnson.

Ibrahim Zadran, who had starred in Afghanistan’s victory over England with a record-breaking 177—the highest-ever individual score in Champions Trophy history—built a 67-run partnership for the second wicket with Atal before departing for 22, trapped by leg-spinner Adam Zampa.

Atal then combined with captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (20) for a 68-run stand for the fourth wicket, but Australia hit back strongly, claiming four wickets for just 40 runs to leave Afghanistan struggling at 199-7.

Omarzai played a vital role in steadying the innings, smashing five sixes while adding 74 valuable runs with the lower order. Rashid Khan also made a handy contribution, scoring 19 off 17 balls, including two boundaries.

Australian Bowling Performance

Ben Dwarshuis emerged as Australia’s most effective bowler, finishing with figures of 3-47. Zampa chipped in with 2-48, while Johnson claimed 2-49, ensuring Afghanistan could not push past the 300-run mark.

With 274 needed for victory, Australia will now look to chase down the target in this high-stakes clash, with a semi-final place on the line.