Free iftar at Champions Trophy semi-final

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced it will provide free Iftar for spectators attending the second semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy between New Zealand and South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, on Wednesday.

Fans with valid match tickets can receive a free iftar box, including dates, juice, and a mini pizza, during the much-anticipated semi-final match. This initiative aims to enhance the match-day experience for those fasting in Ramadan.

Apart from the free iftar, various food and beverage options will be available for purchase at stadium stalls. The semi-final is set to begin at 2:00 PM, with iftar scheduled for 6:05 PM. The PCB’s move reflects its commitment to accommodating fans and fostering an inclusive atmosphere.

Meanwhile, in the first semi-final between Australia and India at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Australia posted a total of 264 runs before being bowled out in 49.3 overs. Steve Smith and Alex Carey played key roles in anchoring the innings.

Australia struggled early when Cooper Connolly fell to Mohammed Shami in the third over with just four runs on the board. However, Smith stabilized the innings with partnerships alongside Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, and Josh Inglis. Head provided a quick 39 off 33 balls, hitting five fours and two sixes before being dismissed in the ninth over.

Smith top-scored with 73 off 96 balls, while Labuschagne added 29. Inglis contributed 11 runs, and after Smith’s dismissal in the 37th over, Australia lost wickets regularly. Carey’s determined 61 off 57 balls, with eight fours and a six, helped push the total past 260.

For India, Shami led the bowling attack with three wickets. Varun Chakravarthy and Ravindra Jadeja picked up two wickets each, while Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel took one wicket apiece.