• Steve Smith showcased exemplary sportsmanship by withdrawing a run-out appeal against Noor Ahmad.

  • The clash between Australia and Afghanistan in Champions Trophy 2025 ended with no result due to rain.

AFG vs AUS: Fans laud Steve Smith as he revokes run-out appeal against Noor Ahmad in Champions Trophy 2025
Fans laud Steve as he revokes run-out appeal against Noor Ahmad in Champions Trophy 2025 (Image source: X)

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In a high-stakes Champions Trophy 2025 clash between Australia and Afghanistan at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Australian captain Steve Smith demonstrated a rare act of sportsmanship that left cricket fans applauding his integrity. The incident occurred during the 47th over of Afghanistan’s innings when wicketkeeper Josh Inglis ran out Noor Ahmad, who had wandered out of his crease mistakenly believing the over was complete. Despite the rules being on Australia’s side, Smith chose to withdraw the appeal, showcasing the spirit of cricket.

Steve Smith takes back run out appeal in spirit of the game

Afghanistan, battling to post a competitive total after a middle-order collapse, relied on Azmatullah Omarzai and tailender Ahmad to add crucial runs. Omarzai struck a single off Nathan Ellis‘ delivery, and Noor followed him mid-pitch, assuming the ball was dead. However, wicketkeeper Josh Inglis seized the opportunity, whipping off the bails while Noor was well out of his ground. Under cricketing laws, Noor could have been declared run-out since the ball was still live until the umpire officially called “over.”

Replays confirmed Noor’s dismissal was valid by the rulebook. Yet, before the umpires could escalate the decision for review, Smith intervened, signalling to withdraw the appeal. This decision allowed Noor to continue batting and contributed to Afghanistan’s eventual score of 273.

A contrast to past controversies

Smith’s gesture drew immediate comparisons to controversial moments in cricket history. Most notably, it echoed Australia’s decision during the 2023 Ashes series to uphold Alex Carey’s stumping of Jonny Bairstow under similar circumstances. That incident sparked widespread debate about the “spirit of cricket” versus adherence to rules. Unlike in 2023, Smith’s decision this time reflected a commitment to fair play over tactical advantage.

Other instances in cricket history have also seen players caught out due to similar misunderstandings. For example:

  • In 2006, Muttiah Muralitharan was dismissed by Brendon McCullum after leaving his crease to congratulate Kumar Sangakkara for which Kiwi captain Stephen Fleming upheld the appeal.
  • In 2011, MS Dhoni recalled Ian Bell after a controversial run-out at Trent Bridge when Bell assumed the ball was dead. Later on Dhoni agreed to recall Bell after England captain Andrew Strauss and coach Andy Flower approached him during the tea interval with this request.

Smith’s decision on this occasion stood out as an act that prioritized sportsmanship over exploiting technicalities.

Impact of gesture on the match and beyond

While Noor only added three more runs before being dismissed on the final ball of Afghanistan’s innings, Smith’s decision had broader implications. If Australia had upheld the appeal, Afghanistan would have been reduced to 248/9 with three overs remaining. The additional 25 runs scored by Afghanistan could have been pivotal in a closer contest.

However, rain interrupted Australia’s chase at 109/2 in 10.5 overs, resulting in a no-result and securing Australia’s semi-final berth based on their superior net run rate. Despite the inconsequential outcome for Afghanistan in terms of qualification hopes, Smith’s gesture resonated deeply with fans and commentators worldwide.

Cricket enthusiasts and analysts lauded Smith for upholding the spirit of cricket. Social media platforms were flooded with praise for his leadership and integrity. Many noted that such acts restore faith in competitive sports where winning often takes precedence over principles.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Australia secures semifinal spot as rain washes out clash against Afghanistan

Here’s how some fans reacted:

Also WATCH: Steve Smith’s fielding brilliance gets rid of Sediqullah Atal in AFG vs AUS clash at Champions Trophy 2025

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About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.