Following teams have qualified for the semifinals of the Champions Trophy 2025. These teams are same as of ODI world cup 2023.
-
India: Secured their semi-final spot with victories over Bangladesh and Pakistan.
-
New Zealand: Advanced after defeating Pakistan and Bangladesh.
-
Australia: Qualified following a rain-affected match against Afghanistan, which was abandoned, granting them the necessary points.
-
South Africa: Clinched their spot by bowling out England for 179 runs in their final group match, ensuring a superior net run rate and eliminating Afghanistan from contention.
The semi-final matchups will be determined after the conclusion of the India vs. New Zealand match. The outcomes of this match will finalize the group standings, dictating which teams face each other in the semi-finals.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 – Semi-Finalists In Detail
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has reached its knockout stage, with four teams securing their spots in the semi-finals. Let’s take a deep dive into each team’s journey, key players, strengths, and weaknesses.
1. India
Group Stage Performance:
- Defeated Bangladesh and Pakistan convincingly.
- Their match against New Zealand will decide final group rankings.
Squad Overview:
India has entered the semi-finals as one of the strongest contenders, boasting a well-balanced squad. Their top order is in great form, and their pace attack has been lethal in the tournament.
Key Players:
- Rohit Sharma (Captain) – An experienced leader and aggressive opener.
- Virat Kohli – India’s batting mainstay with the ability to anchor innings.
- Kuldeep Yadav – A wrist-spinner who can turn matches with his variations.
Strengths:
✅ Solid top-order batting with Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Kohli.
✅ One of the best fast-bowling units with Bumrah, Siraj, and Shami.
✅ Tactical captaincy and experience in high-pressure games.
Weaknesses:
❌ Middle-order inconsistency—India has struggled to finish innings strongly.
❌ Vulnerability to quality fast bowling, especially against left-arm pacers.
2. New Zealand
Group Stage Performance:
- Beat Pakistan and Bangladesh to secure a semi-final spot.
- Their match against India will determine whether they finish first or second in the group.
Squad Overview:
New Zealand has once again shown their consistency in ICC tournaments. They have a balanced team with experienced players and exciting young talents.
Key Players:
- Kane Williamson (Captain) – A dependable middle-order batsman and excellent strategist.
- Devon Conway – A solid opener with great technique.
- Mitchell Santner – A reliable all-rounder and key spin option.
Strengths:
✅ Strong leadership and tactical approach under Williamson.
✅ World-class pace attack led by Boult and Southee.
✅ Excellent fielding, which helps in tight matches.
Weaknesses:
❌ Over-reliance on Williamson to anchor the innings.
❌ Middle-order can be fragile under pressure.
3. Australia
Group Stage Performance:
- Confirmed their semi-final spot after their match against Afghanistan was washed out.
- Strong start in the tournament with dominant performances.
Squad Overview:
Australia remains one of the most dangerous teams in ICC tournaments. They have a deep batting lineup, an aggressive bowling attack, and a history of thriving in knockout matches.
Key Players:
- Glenn Maxwell – A game-changer with bat and ball.
- Travis Head – Top order batsman
- Spencer Johnson – Fast Bowler
Strengths:
✅ Aggressive approach in both batting and bowling.
✅ Strong pace attack with Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood.
✅ History of performing well in ICC tournament knockouts.
Weaknesses:
❌ Spin department is not as strong compared to other teams.
❌ Middle-order inconsistency if early wickets fall.
4. South Africa
Group Stage Performance:
- Qualified after eliminating England in a crucial match.
- Their bowlers have dominated the tournament.
Squad Overview:
South Africa has been one of the most exciting teams in the tournament. They have a deadly bowling attack and a batting lineup that can destroy any team on their day.
Key Players:
- Temba Bavuma (Captain) – A steady opener and tactical captain.
- Kagiso Rabada – Their strike bowler who can take wickets at crucial moments.
- Heinrich Klaasen – A powerful middle-order batsman known for his six-hitting ability.
Strengths:
✅ Deadly fast-bowling attack with Rabada, Nortje, and Jansen.
✅ Explosive middle order with Klaasen and Miller.
✅ Good mix of experienced and young players.
Weaknesses:
❌ History of struggling in ICC tournament knockouts (“chokers” tag).
❌ Batting can collapse under pressure.
Semi-Final Matchups (To Be Decided)
The final semi-final matchups will be confirmed after the India vs. New Zealand match, which will decide the top positions in the group.
Potential Semi-Final Scenarios:
- If India finishes first, they will face South Africa in the semi-finals.
- If India finishes second, they might play Australia or New Zealand, depending on net run rate.
Which Team Has the Best Chance to Win?
- India – Strong top order and bowling attack, but middle-order struggles.
- New Zealand – ICC tournament specialists but lack depth in batting.
- Australia – Aggressive, but spin bowling is a weak point.
- South Africa – Dangerous bowling attack, but history of faltering in knockouts.