The Afghanistan vs Australia quarter-final match in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been interrupted due to rain at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. With Australia in a strong position at 109/1 in 18 overs, the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method is now in play to determine the outcome if further play is not possible.
What is the DLS Method?
The Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method is a mathematical formula used in rain-affected cricket matches to calculate a revised target for the chasing team based on the number of overs lost. It takes into account the number of wickets lost, overs remaining, and the scoring rate of the team batting second.
Current Match Situation Before Rain
- Afghanistan Innings: 273 all out in 50 overs
- Australia Score: 109/1 in 18 overs
- Rain stopped play
Revised DLS Target and Australia’s Position
As per the DLS calculations, if the match does not resume, Australia needs to be ahead of the par score to be declared winners. Based on the current scenario:
- The DLS par score at 18 overs is 97/1.
- Since Australia is at 109/1, they are 12 runs ahead of the DLS par score.
- If no further play happens, Australia will win the match by DLS method.
Possible Scenarios if Play Resumes
If the rain stops and the match resumes, Australia’s target will be adjusted based on the number of overs available:
- If reduced to 40 overs: Australia’s new target will be approximately 220 runs.
- If reduced to 30 overs: Australia’s new target will be around 180 runs.
- If reduced to 20 overs: Australia may need 135-140 runs to win.
Afghanistan’s Chances to Make a Comeback
Afghanistan will hope for play to resume so they can bowl more overs and take quick wickets. If play resumes with fewer overs, their bowlers will need to apply pressure to slow down Australia’s scoring rate.
Final Verdict
- If rain does not stop, Australia will win via DLS method.
- If play resumes, Afghanistan will have a chance to defend their total, depending on how many overs remain.
Stay tuned for more updates on the ICC Champions Trophy 2025!
