Champions Trophy 2025: Which Two Teams Will Qualify for Semi-Finals From Group B?

Updated At: 2025/02/27

The Champions Trophy has returned to the cricket arena after eight years, and the cricket world is experiencing immense thrills. With every passing game, the competition has become fierce. The competition in Group B, in particular, has become intense. As the semifinal stage nears, the race for the top spots is heating up. Which two teams will rise above the rest and secure their place in the final four? Let’s dive into the scenarios.

1. South Africa

As the Champions Trophy unfolds with all its glory, the Group B teams face each other with intense competition. After playing two matches, South Africa leads the group with three points. They began their campaign with a dominant win over Afghanistan but were unable to build momentum as their clash against Australia was washed out by rain.

How Can South Africa Qualify for the Semifinals?

In their final group stage clash, South Africa is set to face England. If they defeat the Jos Buttler-led side, they will secure five points and a semifinal spot. However, they face danger if they lose and both England and Australia win their last matches, as South Africa will be eliminated.

Thanks to Afghanistan’s win over Australia, South Africa is almost assured a semifinal spot, as their net run rate is +2.14. Regardless of the outcome of the Afghanistan vs. Australia match, if South Africa wins, they will finish Group B as table toppers. Even if they lose by less than 87 runs, or if England chases down the set target after 40 overs, South Africa will still advance despite the loss."

2. Australia

Known for excelling on the big stage, Australia is competing without some of their key players. They began their campaign with a 5-wicket victory over England. However, their second match against South Africa was disappointingly abandoned due to rain. With one victory, they currently hold the second position in the points table with three points.

How Can Australia QUlify for the Semifinals?

Australia’s qualification scenario is somewhat complicated. If they defeat Afghanistan in their next clash, they will advance to the semifinals with five points. However, if they lose the match, the scenario becomes complex. If England wins both of their remaining matches and Australia loses their remaining match, the second semifinal spot will be decided by the net run rate between Australia and South Africa.

Currently, South Africa holds the advantage in net run rate. Even if Australia loses to Afghanistan by just one run while chasing 301, England would need to beat South Africa by 87 runs while pursuing the same target for Australia to surpass them in net run rate.

3. Afghanistan

Afghanistan is in the same position as England. After a massive 107-run defeat against South Africa, they are placed third in the points table. They maintain that position with a net run rate of -2.140.

How Can Afghanistan Qualify for the Semifinals?

The equation for Afghanistan is quite simple: win their last league game against Australia, and they are through to the semifinals. However, it won't be easy, as Australia, despite playing with a relatively new team, has been dominant against England. If Afghanistan’s spin trio can outfox the Australian batsmen and prevent them from dominating the game, then Afghanistan might well make it to the semifinals.