India, New Zealand enter Champions Trophy semis in a commanding fashion, securing their spots in the knockout stage, while Pakistan and Bangladesh crash out of the tournament. With India and New Zealand maintaining unbeaten records, their qualification was confirmed after New Zealand’s resounding five-wicket win over Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 26.
The India, New Zealand enter Champions Trophy semis moment marks a major milestone in the tournament, as both teams outclassed their competition, including key victories against Pakistan. Hosts Pakistan, struggling throughout the group stage, were left needing multiple favorable results to stay in contention, but Bangladesh’s defeat sealed their elimination.
With India, New Zealand entering Champions Trophy semis, the competition for the top spot in Group A is heating up, as both teams will face off on March 2 to determine the group winner.
Rachin Ravindra’s Heroics Secure Kiwi Victory
A brilliant batting display by Rachin Ravindra helped New Zealand overcome Bangladesh, ensuring India, New Zealand enter Champions Trophy semis with a dominant performance.
- Rachin Ravindra played a sensational knock of 112 off 105 balls, smashing 12 fours and a six.
- Tom Latham provided crucial support with 55 off 76 balls, forming a 129-run partnership with Ravindra.
- Despite early wickets, New Zealand chased down 237 in 46.1 overs, securing their semifinal spot.
With India, New Zealand entering Champions Trophy semis, both teams have cemented their status as the favorites in the tournament.
Michael Bracewell’s Impactful Spell
Before Ravindra’s century, Michael Bracewell’s incredible bowling spell played a pivotal role in restricting Bangladesh to 236/9.
- Bracewell’s magical spell of 4/26 dismantled Bangladesh’s middle order.
- He dismissed key batters, including Mushfiqur Rahim, Towhid Hridoy, and Mahmudullah.
- Bangladesh struggled with scoring momentum, managing only 236/9 in their must-win match.
With Bracewell’s all-round dominance, India, New Zealand enter Champions Trophy semis, ensuring that both teams remain undefeated heading into the next stage.
Why Pakistan & Bangladesh Failed?
While India and New Zealand celebrated their semi-final spots, Pakistan and Bangladesh were left to reflect on their struggles.
- Pakistan suffered defeats against both India and New Zealand, which cost them their qualification chances.
- Bangladesh failed to register a crucial win against New Zealand, sealing their early elimination.
- Pakistan’s inability to capitalize on home advantage has raised questions about their team strategy and preparation.
This India, New Zealand enter Champions Trophy semis moment highlights how consistent performances lead to success, while Pakistan and Bangladesh’s failures expose their lack of execution in key matches.
Match Highlights
- New Zealand bowled first, restricting Bangladesh to 236/9 with Bracewell’s four-wicket spell.
- Bangladesh’s top scorer was Najmul Hossain Shanto, scoring 77 off 110 balls.
- Jaker Ali contributed 45 off 55 balls, but it wasn’t enough for a competitive total.
- New Zealand struggled early, losing Will Young and Kane Williamson cheaply.
- Rachin Ravindra’s match-winning century ensured an easy chase for the Kiwis.
With this dominant display, India, New Zealand enter Champions Trophy semis, while Pakistan and Bangladesh exit the tournament without making an impact.
What’s Next?
- India vs New Zealand on March 2 – A top-of-the-table clash to decide the Group A leader.
- Pakistan vs Bangladesh on February 27 – A dead rubber match, as both teams are already eliminated.
- Semifinals approaching, with India and New Zealand now preparing for the knockout rounds.
With India, New Zealand entering Champions Trophy semis, the intensity of the tournament increases, as teams aim for a spot in the grand finale.
India, New Zealand Enter Champions Trophy Semis as Top Contenders
- India, New Zealand enter Champions Trophy semis after dominant performances.
- Pakistan and Bangladesh eliminated after failing to win key matches.
- Rachin Ravindra’s brilliant century and Bracewell’s 4-wicket haul secured New Zealand’s win.
- India and New Zealand remain unbeaten, heading into the semi-finals as the top contenders.
- The stage is set for a thrilling final phase of the Champions Trophy 2025.
As India, New Zealand enter Champions Trophy semis, the focus now shifts to who will claim the top spot in Group A and secure a favorable semifinal draw.
