Pakistan Shaheens launched their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a 144-run win over Afghanistan at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on February 14, 2025. The team posted 314/8 in 50 overs, with Hussain Talat leading the charge by scoring 70 runs. In response, Afghanistan managed only 170 in 38.4 overs, with Shadab Khan taking three wickets for 29 runs.
Impressive Batting Performance
Key Contributions
The Shaheens’ batting lineup showcased its strength with well-built partnerships:
- Hussain Talat top-scored with 70 runs.
- Mohsin Riaz added 61 important runs.
- Muhammad Irfan Khan chipped in with 57 runs.
These contributions helped the team reach a commanding total, reflecting their readiness for the main tournament.
Afghanistan’s Batting Struggles
Afghanistan’s batting faltered under pressure. Their top order collapsed early, and the middle order couldn’t stabilize the innings. As a result, the team fell well short of the target, facing an uphill battle even before their ICC Champions Trophy debut.
Upcoming Warm-Up Matches
The Shaheens will now split into two squads to face different opponents on February 17:
- South Africa at National Bank Stadium, Karachi.
- Bangladesh at ICC Cricket Academy, Dubai.
These matches will further test their form as they prepare for the tournament. Meanwhile, Afghanistan will play New Zealand at National Bank Stadium, Karachi, on February 16—a crucial chance to bounce back.
Complete Warm-Up Schedule
- 16 February: Afghanistan vs. New Zealand at National Bank Stadium, Karachi
- 17 February: Pakistan Shaheens vs. South Africa at National Bank Stadium, Karachi
- 17 February: Pakistan Shaheens vs. Bangladesh at ICC Cricket Academy, Dubai