Australia’s clash with South Africa in the Champions Trophy has been abandoned after consistent rain hit Rawalpindi.
The umpires had until 7.30pm on Tuesday (12.30am Wednesday AEDT) to make the call with the chance of 20 overs each being played, but the decision was made a little more than two hours before that.
“In consultation with the groundsmen, the umpires have had a chat, the radar also looks horrendous, it’s going to continue to rain for an hour or two and the decision has been taken that this match is abandoned,” South African legend Shaun Pollock said on Amazon Prime’s coverage.
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“Very sad for the competition, it would’ve been a wonderful encounter.”
Both teams came into the match having won their opening encounters and will secure one point from the washout.
The LED board informs fans the match has been abandoned. Getty
The top two teams will progress to the semi-finals with England and Afghanistan the other sides in Group B. Australia defeated England while South Africa won against Afghanistan.
Dale Steyn believes Australia will be more pleased with the outcome.
“Does it fancy someone? I’m not too sure,” he said.
“South Africa will obviously have to win their next game, I’m sure Australia would probably be more at ease having to play against Afghanistan.
“South Africa’s got a big game against England. It just opens up this group a little more now, one or two wins from Afghanistan could really throw a cat amongst the pigeons.”
Afghanistan plays England on February 26 before taking on Australia two days later.
