Lahore, Feb. 28 -- Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat first against Australia in their crucial Champions Trophy encounter at Gaddafi Stadium here on Friday.
Afghanistan Captain Hasmatullah Shahidi said, "We have decided to bat first because it's a used pitch, and we expect it to slow down in the second half, bringing our spinners into play. We were pleased with our performance against England, and we have plans against Australia to rectify any mistakes from that game. We are fielding the same team."
The conditions are pleasant, with a maximum temperature of 19 degrees Celsius. Despite heavy rain yesterday, the outfield is in good shape, and the chances of rain have now dropped to 25 percent. A steady wind is blowing across the s...