As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 unfolds into its first week, Group A has already delivered its semifinalists: India and New Zealand. With the group stage nearing its climax, both teams have showcased dominance, leaving Pakistan and Bangladesh out of contention for the knockout rounds in this thrilling tournament co-hosted by Pakistan and the UAE.
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| Image Credits: ESPN Cricinfo |
India, led by Rohit Sharma, stormed into the semifinals with victories over Bangladesh and arch-rivals Pakistan. Their campaign began with a six-wicket win against Bangladesh, followed by a commanding performance against Pakistan. Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli have been pivotal with the bat, scoring centuries each in the games, respectively, while the bowling attack, despite Jasprit Bumrah’s absence, has held firm.
India’s final group match against New Zealand on March 2 in Dubai will decide the group leader, adding intrigue to their semifinal path.
New Zealand, meanwhile, have been the standout team in Group A, securing their semifinal berth with a five-wicket triumph over Bangladesh in Rawalpindi. This followed a 60-run thrashing of hosts Pakistan in the tournament opener on February 19 in Karachi. Rachin Ravindra and Michael Bracewell starred against Bangladesh, underlining the Blackcaps’ all-round strength.
With Pakistan’s hopes dashed after two losses and Bangladesh unable to recover, the focus shifts to the semifinals on March 4 and 5. India and New Zealand, unbeaten so far, promise a fierce battle for Group A supremacy, setting the stage for an electrifying knockout phase. All eyes on the final group game in Dubai on Sunday (Mar 02).
