New Zealand and India have successfully made it to the semifinals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, following dominant performances in Group A. Rachin Ravindra’s brilliant 112 led New Zealand to a five-wicket victory over Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on Monday, securing their knockout berth and ensuring India’s progression as well. Both teams now sit at the top of the group with two wins each and will meet on Sunday in Dubai to decide the group winner.

Pakistan’s Early Exit

For Pakistan, this tournament has been nothing short of disastrous. As defending champions and hosts of their first ICC event since the 1996 ODI World Cup, their hopes were high. However, they suffered consecutive defeats to New Zealand and India, prematurely ending their campaign.

New Zealand’s Strong Performance

New Zealand’s performances in Group A have been exceptional. They started with a commanding 60-run win over Pakistan and followed it up with a controlled chase against Bangladesh. Michael Bracewell’s career-best 4-36 restricted Bangladesh to 236/9, setting the stage for a comfortable victory. Despite a rocky start, Ravindra’s century and Tom Latham’s supporting 55 steered New Zealand to victory with five wickets in hand.

India and New Zealand’s Dominance in Group A

Both India and New Zealand have shown their strength in the group. With their spot in the semifinals confirmed, the attention now shifts to their upcoming clash in Dubai, which will determine the top spot in Group A.

Focus Shifts to Group B

As Group A’s semifinalists are settled, the focus now turns to Group B, where Australia and South Africa will face off in a critical match on Tuesday in Rawalpindi. Both teams have powerful batting lineups, and the match promises to be a high-stakes affair as they battle for a semifinal spot.

Australia’s Resilience Despite Injury Concerns

Australia, often questioned before ICC events, has surprised critics with their resilience. Their record-breaking chase against England in Lahore showed their strength, despite a depleted bowling attack missing key players like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood. However, their batting lineup, featuring Josh Inglis, Matthew Short, Marnus Labuschagne, Alex Carey, and Glenn Maxwell, has been exceptional, carrying them through tough situations.

South Africa’s Potent Bowling Attack

On the other hand, South Africa will rely on their strong bowling attack led by Kagiso Rabada. With Ryan Rickelton’s aggressive century against Afghanistan and impressive middle-order performances, they are brimming with confidence. However, their hopes are clouded by uncertainty over Heinrich Klaasen’s availability, as he missed the last match due to injury.

The Battle for the Semifinals

While South Africa has not been the favorite going into the tournament, they remain determined to challenge for the title. Australia, meanwhile, seeks to prove their pedigree once again. With a semifinal spot at stake, expect an intense and high-pressure match in Rawalpindi.

Looking Ahead

As both groups near their conclusion, fans are eager to see which teams will emerge victorious. New Zealand and India have already cemented their places in the semifinals, but Group B remains wide open. Will Australia’s fearless batting propel them forward, or will South Africa’s bowlers silence the Aussies? The tension is rising as the tournament progresses, and the next few days will be critical in deciding who goes all the way.

Will the underdogs make a surprise charge to the finals? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—this year’s Champions Trophy is shaping up to be a thrilling ride.