Pakistan Shaheens thrash Afghanistan in Champions Trophy warm-up match

A strong collective batting performance, followed by a stellar bowling display from captain Shadab Khan, led Pakistan Shaheens to a convincing 144-run win over Afghanistan in the first warm-up match of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 at Gaddafi Stadium on Friday.

Batting first, Pakistan Shaheens posted a formidable total of 314/8 in their 50 overs. Hussain Talat top-scored with a well-played 70, while Mohsin Riaz and Muhammad Irfan Khan contributed with 61 and 57 runs, respectively, anchoring the innings.

In reply, Afghanistan’s batting collapsed for just 170 runs in 38.4 overs, handing Pakistan Shaheens a dominant victory. Shadab Khan was the standout bowler, claiming three wickets for just 29 runs, making a crucial impact in Afghanistan’s downfall.

After the defeat, Afghanistan will head to Karachi, where they will face New Zealand in their second warm-up match on February 16.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Shaheens will take on South Africa at National Bank Stadium in Karachi on February 17, while another squad will face Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on the same day.

Champions Trophy 2025 Warm-Up Match Schedule:

• 16 February – New Zealand vs Afghanistan 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