New Zealand and India Qualify for Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Finals as Pakistan and Bangladesh Exit
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- February 25, 2025
- 3:52 pm
- 32
- Sports
New Zealand and India have qualified for the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-finals after dominant performances in Group A. Their wins eliminated Pakistan and Bangladesh from the tournament.
Pakistan’s Struggles Lead to Early Exit
Pakistan had a tough start. In their first match, they lost to New Zealand by 60 runs. The Blackcaps posted a big total of 320/5, thanks to centuries from Will Young and Tom Latham. Pakistan’s batting collapsed under pressure, getting bowled out for 260 in 47.2 overs. Khushdil Shah fought hard with 69 off 49 balls, while Babar Azam scored 64 off 90 deliveries.
The next match against India was a must-win. However, Pakistan struggled again, scoring only 241 runs. Saud Shakeel played a steady knock of 62 off 76 balls, but it wasn’t enough. India chased the target comfortably, losing only four wickets. Virat Kohli led with a brilliant century, while Kuldeep Yadav took 3 for 40 in nine overs.
After two losses, Pakistan’s chances depended on other teams. But New Zealand’s win over Bangladesh sealed their fate. Pakistan was officially out of the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-finals race.
New Zealand and India Dominate Group A
New Zealand continued their strong form with a five-wicket win over Bangladesh in Rawalpindi. Michael Bracewell bowled brilliantly, taking 4 for 26. His tight spell included 43 dot balls and early breakthroughs. Bangladesh struggled to 236/9 in 50 overs.
Chasing 237, New Zealand lost early wickets. But Rachin Ravindra’s incredible knock of 112 off 105 balls changed the game. He built a 129-run partnership with Tom Latham for the fourth wicket. Despite some late pressure from Bangladesh, Ravindra led New Zealand to victory.
With this win, New Zealand joined India in the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-finals. Both teams remain unbeaten in Group A and will face each other on March 2 in Dubai to decide the group leader.
Bangladesh’s Journey Ends
Bangladesh showed promise but failed to win a match. Against New Zealand, Tanzid Hasan and Najmul Shanto gave them a solid start. They rotated strike well and hit early boundaries. However, Bracewell’s spell turned the game. He dismissed Tanzid Hasan on his second ball, triggering a collapse. Bangladesh slipped from 45/0 to 119/5.
Najmul Hossain Shanto fought back with a half-century. Jaker Ali added a late cameo, scoring 45 off 55 balls. Their efforts pushed Bangladesh to 236/9, but it wasn’t enough.
Bangladesh and Pakistan, both winless in Group A, will now play a consolation match on February 27 in Rawalpindi. Meanwhile, New Zealand will travel to Dubai for their top-of-the-table clash against India.
