The semi-final matches are the focus of attention as the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 nears its conclusion. The schedule for the semi-finals will be determined by the last group match between India and New Zealand, even though the four teams who will advance to the knockout stages have been confirmed.
India and New Zealand have both easily qualified for the semi-finals from Group A after defeating Bangladesh and Pakistan, respectively. South Africa and Australia, on the other hand, have advanced from Group B. However, who plays whom in the semi-finals will depend on where the teams are placed in their respective groups.
On March 4 in Dubai, the Rohit Sharma-led team is already scheduled to play in the first semi-final. All enquiries regarding the upcoming schedule will be addressed following the pivotal India vs. New Zealand game on Sunday, March 2.
Scenarios
1. If India beat New Zealand, they will top Group A and face the second-placed team from Group B, which is Australia.
2. If India lose to New Zealand, then they will finish second in Group A and face Group B toppers South Africa in the semi-final.
South Africa and Australia leave for Dubai
On March 5, New Zealand will play the other Group B team (either South Africa or Australia, depending on India’s outcome) in the second semi-final, which will take place in Lahore. India’s qualification will determine the final’s location, which is set for March 9. It will be hosted in Dubai if the former champions make it to the final; if not, Lahore will host it.
The semi-finals of this important event are being scheduled in two different countries, which presents a logistical difficulty. Due to political considerations, Rohit and his team are playing all of their games outside of Pakistan. This weekend, the semi-finalists from Group B—South Africa and Australia—will travel to the United Arab Emirates.
This schedule was done to provide the side playing in Dubai on March 4 plenty of time to prepare, according to an ICC official. But it also means that if one of the teams makes it to the final, they will have to go to Dubai and then maybe back to Pakistan. South Africa will depart Karachi on Sunday, one day after defeating England, while Australia has already moved to Dubai.