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The much-anticipated Champions Trophy 2025 clash between Australia and South Africa at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium ended in disappointment yesterday, as relentless rain forced the match to be abandoned without a single ball bowled. Both teams walked away with a point each, but the real fallout came off the field, with former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif igniting a firestorm of criticism aimed at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for what he alleges is a failure to properly utilize International Cricket Council (ICC) funds.
Rain washes out Australia vs South Africa clash paving the way for England and Afghanistan
The Australia-South Africa encounter was billed as a marquee fixture in the Champions Trophy’s group stage, pitting two cricketing powerhouses against each other. Both teams had won their opening matches and the winner of this game would’ve secured a spot in the semi-finals. However, the match ended in a washout and both teams received one point each. It also opened the door for England and Afghanistan, giving them a strong chance to reach the knockout stages by winning their remaining two fixtures.
Mohammad Kaif slams PCB for poor use of ICC funds the washout
Kaif criticized PCB for their mismanagement of ICC funds after the match in Rawalpindi was washed out due to inadequate ground coverage. Notably, while the pitch at Rawalpindi was covered during the downpour, large swathes of the outfield remained exposed, rendering the ground unplayable despite a break in the weather.
Kaif pointed out that such a crucial game in the Champions Trophy shouldn’t have been affected by poor infrastructure. He questioned whether the ICC funds were utilized properly, highlighting the lack of fully covered grounds despite hosting a major tournament.
Also READ: Sana Mir tears into Pakistan’s squad selection after hosts’ elimination from Champions Trophy 2025
“It’s a shame that the Rawalpindi ground isn’t fully covered. Such an important match – SA vs Aus – might go down the drain because no one addressed this issue. Was the ICC money utilised wisely by hosts?” wrote Kaif on X.
It's a shame that the Rawalpindi ground isn't fully covered. Such an important match – SA vs Aus – might go down the drain because no one addressed this issue. Was the ICC money utilised wisely by hosts? pic.twitter.com/nPwthd1fji
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) February 25, 2025
