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The highly anticipated Australia vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 Group B clash at Rawalpindi ended in disappointment as rain forced an abandonment, with both teams sharing a point each. With this result, both Australia and South Africa now have three points each, keeping them in a strong position for semi-final qualification.
Group B Qualification Scenario
- Australia and South Africa now sit at three points each after two games.
- Afghanistan and England, who are yet to earn a point, face off in Lahore tomorrow.
- Qualification equations:
Australia and South Africa will qualify if they win their final group match.
The loser of England vs Afghanistan will be eliminated.
The winner of England vs Afghanistan can qualify if they also win their last group match.
How the Day Unfolded
AUS vs SA: Weather Wreaks Havoc
Rain played spoilsport throughout the day, delaying the toss and reducing hopes for play. By 7:30 PM local time (8:02 PM IST), the match was officially abandoned, crushing fans' hopes for what was expected to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament.
Key Weather Updates from Rawalpindi
- 14:02 IST – Toss delayed due to drizzle; pitch under covers.
- 15:34 IST – Heavy rain, covers remain on, and forecasts predict more rain in the next four days.
- 16:20 IST – Cut-off time for a 20-over match set at 8:02 PM IST.
- 17:17 IST – No improvement; match increasingly unlikely.
- 17:56 IST – Official confirmation: Match abandoned.
Team News & Pre-Match Talking Points
Australia’s Injury Woes
- Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Mitchell Marsh all missed the tournament due to injuries.
- Marcus Stoinis announced his ODI retirement after being included in the squad.
- Travis Head, who scored just 6 runs vs England, was eager to make a comeback against South Africa.
South Africa’s Squad Update
- Heinrich Klaasen, who missed the first game against Afghanistan, started batting in the nets but was awaiting medical clearance.
- Ryan Rickelton was the standout performer in South Africa’s 107-run victory over Afghanistan, smashing a century.
What’s Next?
Upcoming Fixtures in Group B
England vs Afghanistan – February 26, 2025 (Lahore)
Australia vs Afghanistan – March 1, 2025 (Rawalpindi)
South Africa vs England – March 2, 2025 (Lahore)
With only one more match left for each team, the race for semi-final spots intensifies. Will Australia and South Africa confirm their places, or will England and Afghanistan stage a comeback? All eyes are now on the next Group B clash!
