Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif criticized the authorities at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium for their failure to adequately cover the entire playing field, which resulted in rain disrupting the ICC Men's Champions Trophy Group B match between Australia and South Africa. Persistent rainfall ultimately led to the abandonment of the match without any play.

Kaif posted a photograph of the stadium on social media, expressing disappointment over the lack of complete coverage and highlighting how this oversight could significantly impact the tournament prospects for both teams.

Additionally, the former player questioned whether the funds provided by the ICC were effectively utilized by the host nation, Pakistan.

"It is regrettable that the Rawalpindi ground is not fully protected. An important match like South Africa versus Australia could be lost due to this oversight. Was the ICC funding used appropriately by the hosts?" Kaif remarked on X (formerly Twitter).

The completion of the renovations for the stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi occurred mere days prior to the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025, despite the deadline being extended multiple times.

This marks the first occasion in 29 years that Pakistan is hosting an ICC event, with the last instance being the co-hosting of the 1996 World Cup. In contrast, India is conducting its matches in Dubai.

Pakistan knocked out of Champions Trophy

Hosts Pakistan have been eliminated from the ICC Men's Champions Trophy following losses to New Zealand and India. Their chances of remaining in the tournament hinged on Bangladesh defeating New Zealand, which ultimately did not occur.

Turning to Group B, a rain-affected match between South Africa and Australia resulted in both teams earning one point each, bringing their total to three points from two matches. South Africa currently leads the group due to a more favorable net run rate.

The other two teams in this group, England and Afghanistan, are scheduled to compete on Wednesday in Lahore.

Australia is set to face Afghanistan in the final Group B match, while South Africa will take on England in the concluding game.

From Group A, India and New Zealand have already secured their spots in the semi-finals, which are scheduled for March 4 and 5.

India's semi-final will take place in Dubai on March 4, while New Zealand's will be held in Lahore on March 5.

Read Also: Wasim Akram Praises Abhishek Sharma’s Masterclass in Dubai: ‘A Knock to Remember’

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!