The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 sees Afghanistan, Australia, and South Africa vying for two semi-final spots after England’s elimination. Afghanistan must beat Australia on February 28 to qualify. Australia, similarly, needs to win or rely on favorable outcomes to maintain their chance. South Africa can confirm their progress by defeating England on March 1 or avoid significant losses. Washouts would also benefit the leading teams in standings.
Afghanistan remains in contention for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-finals after their recent eight-run victory over England on February 26 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. With this result, England has been knocked out, leading to a three-way race for two spots between Afghanistan, Australia, and South Africa in Group B.
For Afghanistan, their route to the semifinals is simple: they must defeat Australia on February 28 in Lahore. A loss will eliminate them, allowing Australia and South Africa to advance. If the match is washed out, Afghanistan will also be out, while Australia and South Africa proceed.
Australia’s scenario is nearly the same as Afghanistan’s. They must win against Afghanistan to secure their semifinal berth. However, if Australia loses by a narrow margin, they will depend on England to beat South Africa by a significant margin to maintain a favorable Net Run Rate (NRR). A washout of their match will guarantee Australia’s progression.
South Africa, currently in the strongest position in Group B, will be aware of the stakes. They play England on March 1, and winning that match would solidify their semifinal spot. Even a loss can keep them in contention as long as it isn’t by a substantial margin. If their match is a washout, they will still advance alongside Australia.
In a scenario where both the Afghanistan-Australia and South Africa-England matches are canceled, Australia and South Africa will qualify from Group B due to the current standings and Net Run Rates.
The qualification scenarios for Afghanistan, Australia, and South Africa in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 are clear. Afghanistan must win to stay alive, Australia has a similar need but has a more complex path if they lose. South Africa, positioned well, can qualify with various outcomes but needs to control their match against England to secure their place in the semi-finals.
Original Source: www.cricket.com
