Champions Trophy Semi-Final Line-Up Confirmed: India to Face Australia, New Zealand Set for South Africa Clash
The semi-final line-up for the Champions Trophy 2025 has been confirmed following India’s dominant victory over New Zealand in their final group-stage match. With this win, India secured the top spot in Group A and will face Australia in the first semi-final, while New Zealand will take on South Africa in the second semi-final.
New Zealand is set to depart for Lahore early on March 3 to prepare for their crucial semi-final against South Africa. Meanwhile, India and Australia will battle it out on March 4 in Dubai. The second semi-final between New Zealand and South Africa is scheduled for March 5 in Lahore.
In their last group-stage encounter, India showcased their bowling prowess by deploying 37.3 overs of spin to dismantle New Zealand for a mere 205 runs in a low-scoring thriller. Defending a total of 249, Indian bowlers displayed remarkable control, restricting the run flow and consistently picking up wickets under pressure. Despite a resilient 81-run innings from Kane Williamson, New Zealand fell short as India bowled them out in 45.3 overs.
Varun Chakravarthy stole the spotlight for India, claiming an outstanding five-wicket haul in his debut Champions Trophy match. His mystery spin proved too much for New Zealand’s batters, as he dismissed Will Young, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner, and Matt Henry, securing his first five-wicket haul in ODI cricket.
India has been the most dominant team in this year’s Champions Trophy, winning all three of their group-stage matches. Their semi-final opponents, Australia, have also been in impressive form, having convincingly chased down a high total against England. They were well on their way to victory against Afghanistan in their final group match before heavy rain in Lahore forced the game to be abandoned. Australia’s fixture against South Africa was also washed out due to rain.
On the other hand, New Zealand displayed solid performances by defeating Bangladesh and Pakistan before falling to India in their final group-stage encounter. They now face South Africa, a team that has excelled against spin and showcased their batting strength by dominating Afghanistan and England.
With both semi-finals promising high-intensity clashes, cricket fans eagerly await the knockout stage to see which teams will make it to the grand finale. India and Australia will lock horns in Dubai, while New Zealand and South Africa will battle it out in Lahore for a place in the final.
