Three matches in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 have been washed out due to rain, with all three matches taking place in Pakistan—two in Rawalpindi and one in Lahore.
While the matches in Rawalpindi were affected by persistent rain, the match between Afghanistan and Australia in Lahore faced a different issue. Although the rain stopped after a while, the wet patches on the outfield were too large for the ground staff to dry. The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore lacked an underground drainage system and modern facilities to dry the outfield, leading to the abandonment of the match.
*Fan Reactions*
Fans took to social media to express their disappointment and criticism of the Gaddafi Stadium’s preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy. Many fans highlighted the poor drainage system and inadequate facilities, questioning the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) readiness to host such a marquee tournament.
One fan wrote, “Pakistan Cricket Board have a lot of work to do when it comes to organising ICC tournaments. This tournament has been a really poor one. Rains are not in anyone’s hand but the ground needs massive upgradation. It doesn’t give a good impression for your country”.
Another fan commented, “Such a pathetic drainage system. Pakistan is hosting an ICC tournament and their premium ground couldn’t handle 30 mins rainfall. How is it acceptable? Disgusting”.
*Match Details*
The match between Afghanistan and Australia was crucial for both teams. Afghanistan batted first and posted a competitive total of 273 runs. In reply, Australia was cruising at 109/1 in 12.5 overs when rain interrupted the game. Despite the ground staff’s efforts to clear the waterlogged field, several wet patches remained, forcing the umpires to call off the game after an inspection.
*Impact on the Tournament*
The abandonment of the match saw both teams sharing a point each. Australia advanced to the semi-finals with four points, while Afghanistan’s chances of making the final four now hinge on the outcome of the clash between South Africa and England.
The criticism of the Gaddafi Stadium’s drainage system and the overall preparation for the tournament has raised concerns about Pakistan’s ability to host future ICC events. Fans and cricket analysts alike have called for significant improvements to the infrastructure to ensure that such issues do not recur in the future.
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