ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Group B Standings and Schedule After Rain-Affected Match

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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has seen its fair share of challenges, with the latest being the abandonment of the match between Australia and South Africa due to persistent rain in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. As a result, both teams have three points in Group B, with their final group game deciding who progresses to the semi-finals. The net run-rate currently favors South Africa, putting them at the top of the group.

The abandonment of the match has significant implications for the other teams in the group, particularly England. England's captain, Jos Buttler, has a subtle take on the situation, stating that the tournament is already unique, and he is focused on preparing for the next game. England's path to the semi-finals has been clarified, with wins against Afghanistan and South Africa guaranteeing their spot in the last four. The team's schedule is packed, with their next match against Afghanistan on Wednesday, followed by a crucial game against South Africa on Saturday.

Meanwhile, there has been controversy surrounding India's participation in the tournament, with the team playing all their matches in Dubai due to security concerns in Pakistan. Former England captains Mike Atherton and Nasser Hussain have commented on the advantage this gives India, with Atherton stating that it is an "undeniable advantage" to play in one set of conditions and not have to travel. India's schedule is as follows:

• Completed matches: India has already played their first two matches in Dubai
• Upcoming matches: India will play their remaining group stage matches in Dubai, with potential semi-final and final matches also scheduled to take place in the same city

The Hybrid Model of the tournament has been criticized, with some arguing that it gives India an unfair advantage. However, the model was agreed upon by the BCCI, PCB, and ICC to ensure the tournament's smooth progression.

Australia's Test captain, Pat Cummins, has also weighed in on the issue, criticizing an Australian media outlet for misquoting him on the matter. Cummins stated that he had never said that the tournament was a "farce" or that teams should not be able to pick and choose where they play their matches. Instead, he acknowledged that playing all matches in one venue does give India a significant advantage, particularly in terms of familiarity with the pitch and conditions. The teams' standings are as follows:

1. South Africa: 3 points, top of Group B due to net run-rate
2. Australia: 3 points, second in Group B
3. England: 0 points, bottom of Group B

The tournament schedule is as follows:

• Wednesday: England vs. Afghanistan
• Friday: Australia vs. Afghanistan
• Saturday: England vs. South Africa

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting tournament, with several teams still in contention for a spot in the semi-finals. As the group stages come to a close, the competition is expected to heat up, with each team fighting for a chance to lift the trophy. With the unique challenges and advantages presented by the Hybrid Model, the tournament is sure to be an unpredictable and thrilling ride.

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