Australia, SA to train in Dubai ahead of CT semis
What's the story
Australia and South Africa, the two teams confirmed for the semi-finals from Group B of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, will train at the ICC Academy in Dubai.
This was decided by the International Cricket Council (ICC), as an ongoing match between India and New Zealand at Dubai International Cricket Stadium (DIC) is determining which team from Group A will face them in their semi-final matches.
Here's more.
Training schedule
Teams to train in Dubai before semi-finals
The first semi-final will be held on March 4, in Dubai and the other on March 5, in Lahore.
The ICC's internal communication read: "This means we will not know which team (B1 or B2) will need to travel to Dubai until the conclusion of the New Zealand v India match on March 2."
To maintain fairness and preparation time for all, both Group B finalists will fly to Dubai after their last group match in Pakistan.
Early arrival
Australia's early arrival and training plans
Having finished second in their league fixture in Lahore on February 28, Australia has already reached Dubai.
The Steve Smith-led side arrived on a chartered flight on March 1 and has been given practice time at the ICC Academy.
South Africa, who topped Group B after defeating England in Karachi on March 1, is likely to arrive in Dubai soon after their match.
Travel arrangements
Training and travel plans for the semi-final
The team confirmed for the Dubai semi-final will have a training session on March 3, with an opportunity to train at DIC.
Meanwhile, the team confirmed for the Lahore semifinal will fly from Dubai to Lahore on March 3, by EK622 flying out of Dubai at 21:50.
Both teams playing in the Lahore semi-final will be given a training session on March 4, at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Information
Winner between India and New Zealand to face Australia
The winner between India and New Zealand will take on Australia in the semis. The losing team will face South Africa, Notably, South Africa topped Group B with 5 points. Australia claimed 4 points.
SA
South Africa's performance and potential threat to India
South Africa began their campaign with a dominant 107-run win against Afghanistan, courtesy of a ton from Ryan Rickelton and Aiden Markram's record-breaking fifty.
However, their next match against Australia was washed out, while they beat England by seven wickets in their final game, taking them to the semi-finals with five points.
Heinrich Klassen, the Proteas wicketkeeper batter who has previously threatened India with a few knocks, is a big threat if the two teams meet in the semi-final.
AUS
Australia's performance and potential threat to India
Australia began their campaign with a record chase of 352 against England, courtesy of Jos Inglis's brilliant century (120* off 86).
However, their next two matches against South Africa and Afghanistan (in the second innings) were washed out, taking them to the semi-finals with four points.
Travis Head, the Australian opener who has previously produced match-winning performances against India, is a big threat if the two teams meet in the semi-final.