With India qualifying for the semifinals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, all eyes are now on who they would face in the knockouts. India and New Zealand have already been eliminated from Group A, but Group B still has a closely fought battle, with Australia, South Africa, and England still struggling for a spot among the last four.
India's Dominance in Group A
India started the tournament in style against Bangladesh on 20th February 2025 in Dubai. In their quest to chase a modest total, Indian batsmen overwhelmed the game by winning with six wickets.
The high-scoring India-Pakistan encounter of February 23, 2025, witnessed the action. Pakistan scored 241 runs, with Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan to thank for it. Pakistan's batting, however, was cut short by Indian bowling, led by Kuldeep Yadav's 3-40. A Virat Kohli unbeaten hundred, his 51st in the ODIs, saw India cruise to an easy six-wicket win.
India will next play New Zealand on March 2, 2025, in their final group match. While the two teams have already qualified, New Zealand's Rachin Ravindra has expressed his willingness to play India before the semifinals. (Source)
Who Will Play India in the Semifinal?
Since Group B is yet to be decided, India will next play the second-placed team from that group on March 4, 2025, in Dubai.
- Australia started with a five-wicket win over England but lost the second match to South Africa because of rain. (Source)
- South Africa easily won the first match against Afghanistan but still does not have a decisive victory to reach the semifinal.
- England needs a must-win in their last games to stay in the running.
Key Players to Watch in the Semifinal
- Virat Kohli: His century against Pakistan was a testament to his value in pressure matches. Cricket legends such as Ricky Ponting believe that he could surpass Sachin Tendulkar's ODI record. (Source)
- Kuldeep Yadav: India's ace spinner has been the game-changer, especially against teams susceptible to spin bowling.
Challenges and Controversies
- India hosting all their games in Dubai has stirred up controversy, with critics labeling it as unjust and providing them with an upper hand. (Source)
- Australia suffered a setback as Mitchell Starc withdrew from the tournament to focus on the ICC World Test Championship. (Source)
What's Next?
India will have close monitoring of Group B games prior to preparing for a pivotal semifinal encounter. Cricket enthusiasts can stay up-to-date with real-time match timings and results on the ICC website.
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