Pakistan Shaheens Dominate Afghanistan in Champions Trophy Warm-Up

LAHORE: A collective batting display, complemented by skipper Shadab Khan’s three-wicket haul, propelled Pakistan Shaheens to a commanding 144-run victory over Afghanistan in the first warm-up match of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 at Gaddafi Stadium on Friday.

Opting to bat first, the Shaheens amassed an imposing total of 314/8 in their 50 overs, courtesy of composed half-centuries from Hussain Talat, Muhammad Irfan Khan, and Mohsin Riaz.

Talat led the scoring with a well-compiled 70, while Mohsin and Irfan contributed 61 and 57 runs, respectively.

In reply, Afghanistan faltered, managing only 170 in 38.4 overs, suffering a heavy defeat in their preparation for their maiden appearance in the eight-team tournament.

Shadab starred with the ball for the Shaheens, returning impressive figures of 3/29.

Following this setback, Afghanistan will head to Karachi for their second warm-up match against New Zealand on February 16. Meanwhile, Pakistan Shaheens will face South Africa at National Bank Stadium in Karachi on February 17, while their other squad takes on Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium the same day.

Champions Trophy 2025 Warm-Up Fixtures:

16 February – New Zealand vs Afghanistan, National Bank Stadium, Karachi
17 February – Pakistan Shaheens vs South Africa, National Bank Stadium, Karachi
17 February – Pakistan Shaheens vs Bangladesh, ICC Cricket Academy, Dubai