The match officials for the current Champions Trophy 2025 semi-finals were revealed by the International Cricket Council. India will play Australia in the first semi-final in Dubai when the group stage is over, while New Zealand will play South Africa, who won Group B, in Lahore for a berth in the final. The first semi-final between India and Australia will be officiated by New Zealander Chris Gaffaney and England's Richard Illingworth on Tuesday in Dubai. Andy Pycroft will referee the match, while Michael Gough will act as the third umpire. Illingworth is still in Dubai after presiding over the last Group A match between India and New Zealand. Prior to the weather, Gaffaney was scheduled to officiate Australia's Group B match against South Africa.
Umpires for Champions Trophy semi-finals
IND vs AUS
- On-field Umpires: Chris Gaffaney & Richard Illingworth
- Third Umpire: Michael Gough
- Fourth Umpire: Adrian Holdstock
- Match Referee: Andy Pycroft
SA vs NZ
- On-field Umpires: Kumar Dharmasena & Paul Reiffel
- Third Umpire: Joel Wilson
- Fourth Umpire: Ahsan Raza
- Match Referee: Ranjan Madugalle
India and Australia will square off in the first semi-final of the Champions Trophy 2025, reigniting their rivalry on the grand stage. With India winning every game and Australia pulling off a historic run-chase against England in their inaugural game, both teams have remained undefeated. As the spinners have been able to defend their inclusion in the team, India's bowling has been a strength thus far.
In the end, New Zealand proved to be a decent test for India following resounding victories over Pakistan and Bangladesh. Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel's 98-run partnership helped India recover after the top order fell apart. Then, Varun Chakravarthy's five-wicket haul turned the tide of the match.
However, with some outstanding performances, Australia has demonstrated that its inexperienced side can rise up. Under Steve Smith's leadership, players like Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, and Adam Zampa have maintained their excellent play, leading them to another big tournament semifinal.
