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  • Afghanistan Confirms Participation In Champions Trophy 2025, Boosting Pakistan’s Hosting Prospects: Reports | cricket news

    In a significant boost for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Afghanistan has confirmed its participation in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. This assurance comes as a relief amid speculations about some countries potentially following India’s lead if the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decides not to send its team to Pakistan for the event. The confirmation came during the ICC Annual Board Meeting held in Colombo, where Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) President Mirwais Ashraf and CEO Naseeb Khan met with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The Afghan officials expressed their eagerness to participate in the Champions Trophy, marking Afghanistan’s debut in this prestigious tournament.

    Also Read: EXPLAINED: Why Smriti Mandhana Replaced Harmanpreet Kaur As Indian Women’s Team Captain In Match Against Nepal In Women’s Asia Cup 2024

    Naqvi shared the news with optimism, stating, “They told the chairman that Afghanistan is looking forward to sending its team to Pakistan since they are participating in the Champions Trophy for the first time.” This assurance helps counter the prevailing perception that the BCCI’s financial influence could sway other cricket boards, including those of Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, to follow its path.

    Overcoming Speculation and Uncertainty

    The cricketing world has been abuzz with speculation about India’s potential non-participation in the Champions Trophy if it is held in Pakistan. A former PCB chairman, Khalid Mehmood, had even suggested in an interview that if India opts out, other teams might insist on relocating the tournament to a different venue.

    However, the ACB’s commitment to participating in the Champions Trophy signifies a positive shift. This development not only bolsters Pakistan’s efforts to successfully host the tournament but also showcases Afghanistan’s commitment to international cricket despite regional politics.

    Historical Significance for Pakistan

    The Champions Trophy 2025 holds immense significance for Pakistan. It will be the first major ICC event hosted by the country since it co-hosted the 1996 World Cup with India and Sri Lanka. This tournament presents an opportunity for Pakistan to reaffirm its capability to host high-profile international cricket events, enhancing its reputation on the global stage.

    Excitement Building for the Champions Trophy

    As the cricketing world gears up for the Champions Trophy in February and March 2025, the anticipation is palpable. Afghanistan’s assurance of participation adds an exciting dimension to the tournament, promising thrilling encounters and standout performances.

    Afghanistan’s cricket journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From gaining full member status with the ICC in 2017 to producing world-class talents like Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, the team has consistently punched above its weight. Their participation in the Champions Trophy will undoubtedly bring fresh enthusiasm and competitiveness to the event.

    Implications for Regional Cricket Dynamics

    Afghanistan’s decision to play in Pakistan despite potential political pressures highlights the growing maturity and independence of cricketing nations in the region. It also underscores the importance of separating sports from politics, allowing cricket to serve as a unifying force.

    The PCB, on its part, has been diligently working to ensure top-notch security and hospitality for all participating teams. Hosting the Champions Trophy successfully would be a testament to Pakistan’s preparedness and resilience, setting the stage for more international cricket in the country.

  • Afghanistan Players Celebrate DJ Bravo Style, Dance To ‘Champion’ Song After Historic Win Against Australia In T20 WC 2024- WATCH | Cricket News

    The Afghanistan cricket team made history in the T20 World Cup 2024 by defeating former champions Australia by 21 runs in a Super 8 match on Saturday. Afghanistan team players had a wi a massive celebration after their impressive victory. They defeated Australia by 21 runs, marking their first-ever win against the Aussies and keeping their semifinal hopes alive. Following a loss to India in their previous game, Afghanistan knew they needed a win against Australia to stay in the competition. They achieved this goal with strong performances from Gulbadin Naib, Naveen-ul-Haq, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Ibrahim Zadran.

    Both Afghanistan openers scored fifties, providing a strong start against Australia. Later, the bowlers played a crucial role, with Naib taking four wickets and Naveen grabbing three, limiting Australia to just 127 runs. Earlier, Afghanistan had set a target of 148-6, setting the stage for their memorable victory and securing their place in the tournament’s history.

    Afghanistan Team Celebration DJ Bravo Style

    The players celebrated on the field and continued their jubilation in the team bus, as shared by former captain Mohammad Nabi in a video on Instagram. They were seen singing and dancing to ‘Champion’, a song belonging to their bowling coach Dwayne Bravo, who had recently joined the team as a consultant.

    The celebrations of Dwayne Bravo and Afghanistan team after won against Australia.

    -DJ Bravo singing his Champion Song. pic.twitter.com/yPpT8LpNIn — Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) June 23, 2024

    Celebrations In Afghanistan

    Cricket fans converge in large numbers in Khost province to celebrate #AfghanAtalan’s historic win over Australia in the #T20WorldCup. #AFGvAUS ​​| #GloriousNationVictoriousTeam pic.twitter.com/F22TvOoDRq

    — Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) June 23, 2024

    The Afghanistan Cricket Board, known as ACB, shared photos from Khost Province where cricket fans gathered to celebrate Afghanistan’s historic victory over Australia in the T20 World Cup.

    Afghanistan’s Incredible Campaign

    In the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, Afghanistan has been enjoying a remarkable journey. They clinched the second position in Group C with victories over New Zealand, Uganda, and Papua New Guinea, while suffering a lone defeat to co-hosts West Indies. This achievement propelled them into the Super 8 stage, where they are placed in Group 1 alongside India, Australia, and Bangladesh.

    Following a setback in their opening Super 8 encounter against India, Afghanistan bounced back emphatically with a memorable victory against Australia, rejuvenating their prospects for a spot in the semifinals. Currently standing third in the group with one win and one loss, they maintain a Net Run Rate (NRR) of -0.650.

    Afghanistan’s next crucial encounter, slated for June 24 in St Vincent’s Kingstown, sees them facing Bangladesh. Rashid Khan and his team are optimistic about their chances and will be hoping for an India victory over Australia to enhance their chances of securing a top-two finish in Group 1 during the Super 8 stage.

    If Mitchell Marsh’s team fails to beat India, Afghanistan will advance to the semifinals, while the 2021 T20 World Cup champions will be eliminated. Rashid Khan’s team also needs to win their upcoming match against Bangladesh to strengthen their chances further.

  • IND vs AFG Weather Report From Barbados In T20 World Cup 2024 Super 8: Will Rain Play Spoilsport? , Cricket News

    As the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 Super 8 stage intensifies, cricket enthusiasts around the globe eagerly anticipate the showdown between India and Afghanistan at the iconic Kensington Oval in Barbados. Scheduled for Thursday, June 22, this match promises high-octane action as both teams bring their A-game to the pitch. However, the looming threat of rain casts a shadow over the excitement.

    Also Read: Team India’s Probable Playing XI vs Afghanistan In T20 World Cup 2024 Super 8 Game – In Pics

    Weather Conditions: A Game-Changer?

    The weather in Barbados can be as unpredictable as a T20 game itself. According to AccuWeather, the match day forecast predicts “partly sunny and humid with a shower in places.” There’s a 40% chance of rain, with temperatures hovering around 31°C and humidity at 75%. While the sun is expected to shine through most of the day, the possibility of intermittent showers could disrupt the match.

    Pitch Report: Kensington Oval Insights

    Kensington Oval has been a witness to numerous memorable cricketing moments. The pitch here traditionally supports batsmen, with an average first-innings score of 138. However, the highest score recorded is a whopping 224, indicating the potential for high-scoring affairs. Of the 47 T20Is played here, the team batting first has won 30 matches, suggesting a preference for setting a target rather than chasing one.

    India’s Form: Dominant and Determined

    India enters this clash riding a wave of confidence. Their Super 8 journey has been impressive, with victories against Ireland, USA, and Pakistan, though the match against Canada was unfortunately abandoned due to rain. The Indian team, under the astute leadership of Rohit Sharma, has displayed a formidable blend of explosive batting, sharp fielding, and strategic bowling.

    Standout performances from Virat Kohli, who has been in scintillating form, and the young sensation, Shubman Gill, have been pivotal. Additionally, the bowling unit, spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah, has been lethal, consistently dismantling opposition line-ups.

    Afghanistan’s Journey: A Tale of Grit and Flair

    Afghanistan’s journey to the Super 8s has been marked by resilience and flair. They commenced their campaign with a stunning win against New Zealand, followed by victories over Uganda and PNG. However, a heavy defeat to West Indies in their last group stage match highlighted areas needing improvement.

    Led by the charismatic Rashid Khan, Afghanistan’s team is known for its unpredictable and aggressive style. Players like Mohammad Nabi and Hazratullah Zazai have been instrumental in their success, delivering crucial performances when it mattered the most.

    The Stakes: High for Both Teams

    As India and Afghanistan gear up for this crucial encounter, both teams understand the significance of a victory. For India, maintaining their undefeated streak and securing a strong position in the Super 8s is paramount. On the other hand, Afghanistan aims to bounce back from their recent defeat and prove their mettle against a top-tier team.

    Fan Expectations: A Battle to Remember

    Fans from both nations and around the world are eagerly awaiting this clash. The electric atmosphere at Kensington Oval, combined with the passionate support from the stands, is expected to create an unforgettable experience. Cricket aficionados hope the weather gods will be kind, allowing for a full 40-over spectacle.