“We Know How Good They Are” – Labuschagne Warns Against Underestimating Afghanistan Ahead of Champions Trophy Clash

Australia Gears Up for High-Stakes Battle as They Face a Dangerous Afghan Side in Final Group Match

Lahore, February 28: Australia is leaving nothing to chance as they prepare to face Afghanistan in their crucial final group-stage match at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, according to star batter Marnus Labuschagne. The 30-year-old emphasized that Afghanistan is no underdog, recalling their tense World Cup 2023 battle, where Glenn Maxwell’s iconic 201 carried Australia to a narrow three-wicket win*.

“We know how good they are, we know the skill level they play with. But we’re going to make sure we come really well prepared and put a strong performance together,” Labuschagne told reporters on Thursday, as quoted by the ICC.

Respect for Afghanistan’s Strengths

Labuschagne highlighted Afghanistan’s lethal bowling attack, particularly their spin dominance in the middle overs and impressive pace bowling.

“If we’re batting, we’ll be looking to combat their spin through the middle, which has been their strong point. Their pace attack has also been very good in the last few games—Noor Ahmad started really well, and they finished the game strongly last night,” he noted.

On the batting front, Labuschagne acknowledged Afghanistan’s top order, referencing their 291-run total against Australia in the 2023 World Cup.

“They have quality batters. Last time we played them, they put up 291, and it took something special from Maxwell to get us over the line.”

Australia Unfazed by Conditions or Crowd Pressure

With rain affecting multiple matches in the tournament—including Australia’s washed-out clash against South Africa—Labuschagne assured that the team remains fully prepared despite limited game time.

“Most of our preparation came before the tournament. We’ve had training rain-outs, an abandoned game, and now indoor practice, but the boys have played a lot—we’re ready to go,” he said.

Additionally, he dismissed any concerns over crowd hostility, stating that Australia is focused solely on execution.

Aiming for a Strong Finish

Australia has played just one game in the tournament so far, securing a five-wicket win over England. Labuschagne praised the team’s all-round performance, particularly contributions from Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, and Matt Short.

“It feels like we’re at the clinch part of the tournament and we’ve only played one game. But different people stood up against England, and that bodes well for us moving forward.”

With a semi-final spot at stake, Labuschagne called on the entire squad—both young and senior players—to step up and deliver a complete performance.

“Going into tomorrow’s game, we’ve all got to be ready to perform. Whether setting a total or chasing, we need to make sure we win the game.”

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ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Australia vs Afghanistan, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell 201, Afghanistan Cricket, Australia Cricket, Noor Ahmad, Josh Inglis, ICC Cricket, Lahore Cricket Match