Watch: Steve Smith's sportsmanship moment; withdraws run-out appeal during AUS vs AFG clash

Steve Smith withdraws run-out appeal during AUS vs AFG clash. (Photo: X)

Australia captain Steve Smith’s display of sportsmanship during the Champions Trophy 2025 match against Afghanistan on Friday has sparked discussion. The moment occurred on the final ball of the 47th over of Afghanistan’s innings when Azmatullah Omarzai played a shot to mid-wicket and took a single. After completing the run, Noor Ahmad, who had reached the striker’s end, unknowingly stepped out of his crease before wicketkeeper Josh Inglis even collected the throw from the fielder. Inglis removed the bails and appealed for a run-out, as the ball was not yet deemed dead.

However, in a remarkable show of fair play, Smith decided to withdraw the appeal, earning widespread praise from commentators and fans alike.

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ashik (@ashik1587212) February 28, 2025

Australia secured a semifinal spot after their final Group B match against Afghanistan in Lahore was washed out. Rain interrupted Australia’s chase, and despite a break in the downpour, the ground remained too wet for play to resume, forcing the umpires to call off the game.

With the match abandoned, both teams shared points, taking Australia to four points—enough to secure a semifinal berth. Afghanistan, on the other hand, now face an uphill battle. Their only hope of advancing depends on England defeating South Africa by a massive margin.

Before rain interrupted play, Travis Head played an explosive knock, remaining unbeaten on 59 off 40 balls, as Australia reached 109 for 1 in 12.5 overs while chasing a target of 274.

Afghanistan had earlier posted 273 all out in 50 overs after opting to bat first, thanks to fighting half-centuries from Sediqullah Atal (85) and Azmatullah Omarzai (67).

Among Australia’s bowlers, Ben Dwarshuis was the standout performer, claiming three wickets for 47 runs, while Spencer Johnson and Adam Zampa chipped in with two wickets eac