Scenario for every team to qualify for semi-finals of ICC Champions Trophy 2025

With India and New Zealand securing their spots in the semi-finals from Group A, Pakistan and Bangladesh have been eliminated from the tournament. Now, all eyes are on Group B, where the race for the remaining two semi-final spots is still open.

The recent washout between Australia and South Africa had a significant impact on the qualification scenario. Both teams shared a point each, bringing their total to three points. South Africa currently leads the group due to a superior Net Run Rate (NRR). With only few matches left, each game in Group B has turned into a virtual knockout contest.

South Africa:

South Africa is in the strongest position to qualify. Their dominant 107-run victory over Afghanistan boosted their NRR to +2.140. If they win their final match against England, they will confirm their place in the semi-finals.

Even if they lose to England, they can still advance if neither England nor Afghanistan manages to win both of their remaining games.

Australia:

Australia also controls its destiny. A win against Afghanistan in their last match will secure their spot in the semi-finals.

However, if they lose to Afghanistan, their qualification will depend on other favorable results. In that case, NRR can also decide the second team to go through.

England:

England faces a tough path. After losing their opening match to Australia, they must win both of their remaining matches against Afghanistan and South Africa to qualify directly.

Their game against Afghanistan is particularly crucial. If they lose any of their matches against South Africa or Afghanistan, their hopes of reaching the semi-finals will vanish. 

Afghanistan:

Afghanistan is at the bottom of Group B after their heavy defeat to South Africa. To keep their hopes alive, they must win both of their remaining matches against England and Australia.

If they manage to do so, they will qualify alongside either South Africa or Australia depending on NRR.

With Group B still wide open, the next few matches will decide which two teams join India and New Zealand in the semi-finals. Every game from here on is a must-win for teams hoping to stay in the race.