Australian National Cricket Team Captain and star Steve Smith once again showed why he’s respected in the cricketing world with a remarkable display of sportsmanship during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. In their must win match against Afghanistan in Lahore on February 28, Smith made a classy gesture by withdrawing a run-out appeal leaving cricket fans applauding his fair play.

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Smith Withdraws Run-Out Appeal

The moment unfolded on the final ball of the 47th over of Afghanistan’s innings. Azmatullah Omarzai pushed the ball towards long-on and easily ran a single. However, Noor Ahmad assuming the over had ended, walked out of his crease. Australian wicketkeeper Josh Inglis, quick to react took off the bails and appealed for a run-out.

But in a display of pure sportsmanship Steve Smith asked the umpires to withdraw the appeal. This rare gesture not only saved Noor Ahmad’s wicket but also showcased Smith’s integrity and respect for the game.

According to Law 20.1.2 of the ICC’s playing conditions, a ball is considered dead when both the fielding side and the batters no longer consider it in play. While the appeal was within the rules, Smith’s decision to focus on fairness over winning earned him praise from fans and fellow players alike.

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Also Read : Australia reach to the semis despite washout against Afghanistan in Rawalpindi

Australia’s Qualified To The Semifinals

Despite Smith’s sportsmanship and Australia’s strong start while chasing Afghanistan’s 274-run target rain ended the game prematurely. However Australia’s journey in the tournament remains alive and well as they officially qualified for the semi-finals. This marks Australia’s first Champions Trophy semi-final appearance since 2009 when they went on to lift the trophy in South Africa.

Openers Travis Head (59 off 40 balls)* and Steve Smith (19 off 22 balls)* were in great form before the rain intervened.