LAHORE: Sediqullah Atal's performance shone brightly during Afghanistan's match against Australia at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, held on February 28 at Gaddafi Stadium. The rising star scored 85 runs, but it was not enough, as Afghanistan struggled to keep pace with Australia’s bowling attack.
Batting at number three, Atal came to the crease when Afghanistan faced early turmoil, losing opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz to just five balls. The young cricketer showcased remarkable composure and skill, stabilizing the innings and forming significant partnerships with Ibrahim Zadran and captain Hashmatullah Shahidi. His innings included six boundaries and three sixes, all packed within his 95 balls faced.
Atal’s knock raised hope among fans, as it marked his return to form after earlier tournament scores of 4 and 16. His innings enabled Afghanistan to post 217 runs for seven wickets after 43 overs; though not ideal, the score presented some fight against Australia, who showed formidable bowling depths with Spencer Johnson and Adam Zampa both taking two wickets.
“Atal scored 85 off 95 balls, with six fours and three sixes,” as reported by Hindustan Times. His spirited knock saw him form partnerships of 67 runs with Zadran, who managed to score 22 runs, and 68 runs with Shahidi, adding much-needed runs to the scoreboard.
Unfortunately for Afghanistan, the rest of the batting line-up failed to deliver under pressure, collapsing as Australia closed the grip on the game. Spencer Johnson finally ended Atal's innings, dismissing him during the 32nd over. The match was pivotal for both teams, as each aimed for semi-final qualification.
Historically, Atal's score has become significant as it stands as the second-highest individual score by an Afghan batter against Australia. “Atal's 85 is now the second-highest individual score by an Afghanistan batter against the Aussies in international cricket,” stated ESPNcricinfo, highlighting the importance of this innings not only to the game but to Atal's budding career.
With the IPL 2025 auction approaching, attention has turned to whether Atal will secure a contract after being unsold during the mega auction last year. His base price was set at ₹75 lakhs, and fans are clamoring to see if he’ll make teams reconsider him as potential replacement material.
Rumors swirling around three major franchises suggest possible suitors for Atal. Chennai Super Kings, having lost several non-performing players, could be interested if opener Devon Conway faces injuries, especially since the team needs strong replacements. Royal Challengers Bengaluru may look to sign Atal as they face injury concerns with Jacob Bethell, potentially seeking his talents as a talented left-handed option. Meanwhile, the Rajasthan Royals could also eye Atal as they navigate their own batting depth issues due to Jos Buttler’s recovery from surgery and Yashasvi Jaiswal’s ankle trouble.
The future looks bright for Sediqullah Atal, as he combines impressive batting skills with the attention generated from his ICC Champions Trophy performance. With opportunities on the horizon, including IPL prospects and continued appearances for Afghanistan, Atal’s growth as both player and cricketer promises to captivate fans worldwide.