Australia advanced to the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinals after their Group B match against Afghanistan was abandoned due to rain. Afghanistan still has a slim chance of qualifying, depending on the outcome of the England vs. South Africa match. If South Africa wins, they will top Group B. A loss puts them at risk, as their qualification would hinge on Net Run Rate (NRR) against Afghanistan. In Group A, the match between India and New Zealand will determine the group leader. If India wins, they will face the runner-up from Group B; if they lose, they may confront Australia or South Africa in the semifinals.
Indian cricket team taking to the field during the Champions Trophy 2025© AFP
Australia secured their position in the semifinals of the Champions Trophy 2025 after their Group B encounter with Afghanistan was abandoned due to a wet outfield in Lahore on Friday. Despite this outcome, Afghanistan still holds a slender opportunity to advance, hinging on the result of the match between England and South Africa on Saturday. A victory for South Africa would grant them 5 points from 3 matches, ensuring they emerge as the top team from Group B.
Conversely, if South Africa succumbs to England, they will end up with 3 points, equal to Afghanistan. In such a case, the second semifinal spot will be determined by the Net Run Rate (NRR), where South Africa currently holds a significant edge with a much higher NRR.
The concluding Group A match, featuring India and New Zealand, will determine the group leader. Both teams currently hold 4 points from 2 matches, with New Zealand having the better NRR.
Here’s a glimpse of India’s potential adversaries in the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinals –
If India triumph over New Zealand –
India will lead Group A, meaning the Rohit Sharma-led squad will compete against the team finishing second in Group B. If South Africa loses to England yet qualifies based on superior NRR, they will confront India in the semifinals. Alternatively, if South Africa suffers a significant defeat and Afghanistan claims the second spot, they will face India.
Should South Africa emerge victorious against England, India will face Australia in the semifinals.
If India is defeated by New Zealand
In that situation, India would secure the second position in Group A. If South Africa loses to England, India will compete against Group B’s first-placed team, Australia, in the semifinals. However, if South Africa wins, they will top Group B and then face India in the semifinals.
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