By Zainab Shafiq 
As the Champions Trophy 2025 heads into its final group-stage clashes, the battle for semi-finals in Group B is heating up. With Australia and South Africa tied at the top with three points each, Afghanistan are trailing just behind with two points, while England have been eliminated.
South Africa and Australia Qualification Scenario for Semi-Finals
Despite their abandoned fixture, Australia and South Africa still control their destiny. A win for either side in their remaining match will secure their place in the semi-finals. However, Afghanistan remain in contention, hoping to turn the tables with a crucial victory against Australia.
Upcoming Fixtures:
- February 28: Australia vs Afghanistan, Karachi
- March 1: England vs South Africa, Karachi
How Each Team Can Qualify:
- Australia Win (Feb 28): Australia and South Africa qualify regardless of the March 1 result.
- Afghanistan Win (Feb 28) & South Africa Win (Mar 1): South Africa qualifies with five points, Afghanistan advances with four.
- Afghanistan Win (Feb 28) & England Win (Mar 1): Afghanistan lead with four points; South Africa’s qualification depends on net run rate.
- No Result (Feb 28) & South Africa Win (Mar 1): South Africa qualify with five points; Australia secure second spot with four.
- No Result (Feb 28) & England Win (Mar 1): Australia move ahead with four points, leaving Afghanistan and South Africa on three, where NRR will decide the second qualifier.
Net Run Rate Could Be the Decider
If Afghanistan win against Australia and England defeat South Africa, the qualification will hinge on net run rate. South Africa, currently holding a strong NRR of +2.140, are in a favorable position unless they suffer a massive defeat.
On the flip side, if Afghanistan win by a narrow margin and England pull off a commanding victory over South Africa, Australia might still sneak through. The equation shifts dramatically depending on match margins, making every run and wicket crucial in the final games.
As the final two group matches approach, the stakes couldn’t be higher. While Australia and South Africa are in control, Afghanistan remains a serious threat to shake up the standings.
Also, see:
Afghanistan create history, defeat England in Champions Trophy match