With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 nearing its decisive phase, India has secured a place in the semifinals alongside New Zealand. The Kiwis confirmed their spot with a convincing five-wicket victory over Bangladesh, setting up an exciting final group-stage clash against India on March 2 in Dubai.
India has been in top form, registering crucial wins over Bangladesh and arch-rivals Pakistan. Sitting comfortably with four points from two matches, their final group-stage outcome will determine their semifinal opponent. A win over New Zealand would see India finish atop Group A, pitting them against the runner-up from Group B, which consists of Australia, South Africa, Afghanistan, and England. However, if India loses, they will take on the Group B table-toppers instead.
As things stand, Australia and South Africa lead Group B with two points each, making them the frontrunners for qualification. With both teams yet to play their remaining fixtures, the battle for a semifinal spot remains wide open. Regardless of their opponent, India will play their knockout fixture on March 4 at the Dubai International Stadium.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan stunned the cricketing world with a thrilling eight-run victory over England at the Gaddafi Stadium, marking one of the most memorable upsets in the tournament’s history. This defeat not only ended England’s campaign but also extended their miserable losing streak in ODIs to six matches—their worst run since 2009.
With the semifinals just around the corner, cricket fans eagerly await the final lineup, knowing that the battle for the coveted Champions Trophy is only going to get more intense.