The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is approaching the end of the group stage, offering thrilling entertainment with teams posting huge scores on batting-friendly pitches.
The tournament witnessed 11 centuries in the first 11 group-stage games. Ibrahim Zadran made history by registering the highest individual score in the tournament’s history, smashing 177 against England in Lahore.
As the tournament progresses towards the knockout stage, with semi-finals scheduled for March 4 and 5, and the final on March 9, let’s take a look at the teams that have qualified for the semi-finals.
1. India
India has proven to be one of the most formidable teams in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. With a balanced squad comprising solid batting depth and six reliable bowling options, they have displayed impressive consistency throughout the tournament.
Their campaign kicked off with a dominant six-wicket win over Bangladesh, followed by another six-wicket victory against Pakistan in Dubai. Shubman Gill has been the top run-scorer for India, amassing 147 runs, while Mohammed Shami has emerged as the team’s most successful bowler, taking five wickets.
India’s final group-stage match against New Zealand on March 2 will determine who finishes on top of Group A and also decide their semi-final opponents.
2. New Zealand
New Zealand have built a reputation for their consistency in ICC tournaments and remain unbeaten in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025, securing two wins in two matches.
They started strong with a 60-run victory over Pakistan in their opening game and followed it up with a five-wicket win against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi. Tom Latham has been their leading run-scorer, amassing 173 runs, while Michael Bracewell has been their standout bowler with five wickets.
Their final group-stage match against India on March 2 will be crucial in determining their position in the standings. The management will be hoping for a return to form for Kane Williamson before the semi-finals.
3. Australia
Despite entering the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 without several senior players, Australia has made it to the semi-finals. This marks their first semi-final appearance since their victorious 2009 campaign.
With opener Matthew Short injuring his quad during the Afghanistan match, Australia will need to find a replacement for him as he is unlikely to feature again in the tournament.
4. South Africa
South Africa became the final team to qualify for the semi-finals in their last group-stage match against England on March 1. The Proteas successfully avoided a loss by more than 207 runs, bowling England out for 179 in the first innings.
With the semi-finals approaching, South Africa will closely monitor the fitness of key players Temba Bavuma, Tony de Zorzi, and Aiden Markram.