Related Articles
Afghanistan’s historic eight-run victory over England in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has blown Group B wide open, keeping their semifinal hopes alive while eliminating the defending champions. This win marks Afghanistan’s first-ever victory in the ICC Champions Trophy and their second consecutive ODI win over England, the first being in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India.
While India and New Zealand have already secured their semifinal spots from Group A, the qualification battle in Group B remains intense. With one match left for each team, the upcoming encounters will determine which two teams join the semifinals.
Table of content
Group B Standings After Afghanistan’s Win
- South Africa – 3 points (1 win, 1 no result, NRR: +0.940)
- Australia – 3 points (1 win, 1 no result, NRR: +0.785)
- Afghanistan – 2 points (1 win, 1 loss, NRR: -0.319)
- England – 0 points (2 losses, NRR: -1.220) – Eliminated
Qualification Scenarios for Group B
South Africa
The Proteas need a win against England in their final group-stage match to confirm a semifinal berth. If they lose, they will remain at three points and will have to depend on the result of the Afghanistan vs. Australia match.
- If South Africa lose to England: Their fate will depend on net run rate (NRR). If Afghanistan and England both win, South Africa must ensure that their NRR remains higher than Australia’s to qualify.
Australia
Australia, currently with three points from two matches, must win against Afghanistan to book their semifinal spot.
- If Australia win against Afghanistan: They qualify automatically with five points.
- If Australia lose: Their qualification depends on South Africa’s match against England. If South Africa also lose, NRR will determine which team goes through.
Afghanistan
With two points from two matches, Afghanistan remains in the semifinal race. Their next match against Australia is a do-or-die encounter.
- If Afghanistan win: They will move to four points, securing a spot in the semifinals.
- If Afghanistan lose: They will be eliminated, and Australia will qualify.
England – Eliminated
After two consecutive defeats, England is out of the semifinal race. They will face South Africa in their final group-stage match, which holds no significance for them but is crucial for South Africa’s qualification chances.
Upcoming Fixtures
- South Africa vs. England – Must-win game for South Africa
- Australia vs. Afghanistan – A direct knockout match for both teams
With the semifinal race heating up, all eyes will be on these last two group-stage matches. Will Afghanistan create another historic moment, or will Australia and South Africa secure their expected spots? The Champions Trophy 2025 promises an exciting finish to the group stage.
