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The final Group B match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place between South Africa and England, a contest that will determine the last semifinalist. With Australia securing a semifinal spot due to their washed-out game against Afghanistan, the Afghan team now finds itself in a tough position, needing an unlikely scenario to advance.
Table of content
Current Group B Standings
| Team | Matches Played | Points | Net Run Rate (NRR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australia | 3 | 4 | +1.320 |
| South Africa | 2 | 3 | +2.140 |
| Afghanistan | 3 | 3 | -0.990 |
| England | 2 | 0 | -2.500 |
With South Africa and Afghanistan both tied at three points, the Proteas have a significantly better NRR. Afghanistan’s only hope of qualification now depends on England defeating South Africa by a massive margin.
Afghanistan’s Qualification Scenario
For Afghanistan to qualify, they need England to beat South Africa by at least 207 runs if they bat first and score over 300 runs.
- If England bats first and scores 300+ runs, they must bowl South Africa out for 93 or less to push Afghanistan ahead on NRR.
- If England chases, they must reach the target in just 11.1 overs (assuming a 300+ target).
This means Afghanistan needs a miracle to make it to the semifinals. Their best chance was to defeat Australia, but rain disrupted the game in the 13th over, ultimately leading to a washout.
What Happens if South Africa Wins?
If South Africa defeats England, they will top Group B with five points, joining Australia, India, and Pakistan in the semifinals.
The crucial South Africa vs. England match will take place at the National Stadium in Karachi, where all eyes will be on whether England can pull off an extraordinary win to keep Afghanistan’s hopes alive.
