The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has reached its crucial stage with the semi-finalists confirmed. The competition will see India and New Zealand from Group A, and Australia and South Africa from Group B, battling it out for a spot in the final.
Semi-Final 1: India vs Australia
- Date: March 4, 2025
- Time: 2:30 PM IST
- Venue: Dubai International Stadium, Dubai
India, led by Rohit Sharma, will face Australia in a blockbuster semi-final clash. Both teams have been in excellent form throughout the tournament. India topped Group A after defeating New Zealand in their final group-stage match on March 2, while Australia secured second place in Group B after their rain-affected match against Afghanistan.
India vs Australia Key Players
- India: Virat Kohli (batting consistency), Varun Chakravarthy(Spin), and Ravindra Jadeja (all-round ability).
- Australia: Steve Smith (captaincy and batting), Travis Head (explosive starts), and Adam Zampa (spin wizardry).
Head-to-Head in Knockouts
India has struggled historically against Australia in ICC knockout matches, including losses in the 2015 World Cup semi-final and the 2023 World Cup final. However, playing in familiar conditions in Dubai might give India an edge.
Semi-Final 2: South Africa vs New Zealand
- Date: March 5, 2025
- Time: 2:30 PM IST
- Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
South Africa topped Group B with a dominant win over England in their last group-stage match, securing their spot as group leaders. They will face New Zealand, who finished second in Group A after losing to India. Both teams are known for their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
South Africa vs New Zealand Key Players
- South Africa: Quinton de Kock (top-order batting), Kagiso Rabada (pace spearhead), and Aiden Markram (middle-order stability).
- New Zealand: Kane Williamson (anchor role), Trent Boult (swing bowling), and Mitchell Santner (spin all-rounder).
Head-to-Head in Knockouts
South Africa has often been labeled as “chokers” in ICC tournaments but will look to rewrite history with a strong performance.
New Zealand, known for their consistency in ICC events, will be aiming for another final appearance after their runner-up finish in the 2019 World Cup.
Both matches promise to be intense battles between evenly matched teams. The winners will advance to the grand final on March 8, 2025, with the venue yet to be confirmed.
