Afghanistan’s strong performances in recent global tournaments mean Australia will not take them lightly in Friday’s Champions Trophy clash, especially with a semi-final spot at stake, coach Jonathan Trott asserted.
Afghanistan’s eight-run victory over England in Lahore on Wednesday kept them in contention for the last four, further proving their rising dominance in limited-overs cricket.
Trott’s side has already built a formidable reputation, defeating England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka to secure sixth place in the 2023 ODI World Cup, followed by a semi-final run in the T20 World Cup last year, where they also beat Australia.
“It’s all on the line,” Trott said, emphasizing that Afghanistan has consistently challenged Australia in recent encounters. He noted that the team is no longer an underdog, and opponents can no longer afford to underestimate them.
The Afghan squad has evolved significantly since Trott took over in 2022, growing in experience and confidence.
“I’m ambitious with these talented players,” he added. “Who knows what we can achieve?”
