How Afghanistan’s win over England impacts the Champions Trophy semifinals race
A nervy finish in Lahore saw Afghanistan land a knockout blow to England, setting up a three-way race to the semis.
While India and New Zealand have been confirmed as semifinalists from Group A, the hunt for a final-four spot in Group B is set to go right down to the wire.
In a must-win contest for both teams, Afghanistan edged out England by eight runs in Lahore. The result means Jos Buttler and co are now officially out of contention for a semifinals spot.
However, for Afghanistan, a ticket to the final four hasn't been punched yet. They will join Australia and South Africa, who split points after a washout on Tuesday, in a final push for the knockouts.
We take a look at how each of the three teams can confirm a place in the semis:
Afghanistan
Despite a win against England, Afghanistan sit third in Group B, lagging behind Australia and South Africa by a point. The Hashmatullah Shahidi-led side are once again at a crossroads with Australia as the two teams prepare for a virtual quarterfinal on Friday in Lahore. A win for Afghanistan will be enough to seal a spot in the semifinals.
Australia
While a win will also confirm Australia's qualification for the semifinals, having a point in hand over Afghanistan means Steve Smith and co will go through even if the game doesn't take place owing to a washout, as was the case for their fixture against South Africa.
South Africa
A win against England in their final group-stage fixture will be enough to see the Proteas through.
South Africa can also progress if they lose against England and Australia defeat Afghanistan. However, if England win their final game and Afghanistan beat Australia, then the Proteas will be in a tight NRR contest with the Aussies, depending on their final results.
Further intrigue in the #ChampionsTrophy Group B permutations after the Australia-South Africa washout 👀
— ICC (@ICC) February 25, 2025
Here's where each side stands 📝 pic.twitter.com/2AGTfSHVRn
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