Uncertainty surrounds the travel arrangements of Australia and South Africa as they gear up for the Champions Trophy semi-finals, with the exact venue yet to be determined. Both teams are set to depart for Dubai in anticipation of their knockout matches, despite the potential need to return to Pakistan within a day. Australia secured their place in the semi-finals on Friday after their match against Afghanistan was canceled due to rain, while South Africa confirmed their position in the final four on Saturday.

The first semi-final is scheduled to take place in Dubai on Tuesday, followed by the second semi-final in Lahore the following day. India, having already secured a spot in the semi-finals, will remain in Dubai for their matches, opting not to travel to Pakistan.

However, the finalization of Group A standings has created an unusual logistical challenge for both Australia and South Africa, as they remain uncertain about their semi-final locations.

Group B will conclude on Saturday with South Africa facing England, but neither team will have clarity on their semi-final venue until the conclusion of India's group-stage match against New Zealand on Sunday.

Should they wait until Monday for confirmation, it would hinder their ability to conduct training sessions in Dubai, where India has played all of its matches.

To-and-fro for one team

A report from the BBC indicates that Australia is set to embark on a three-hour flight from Lahore to Dubai on Saturday, with the possibility of returning on Monday if they do not face India. South Africa will also travel to Dubai early on Sunday, but they may return to Pakistan the following day if their match is arranged for Lahore instead.

This situation has ignited discussions regarding the tournament's scheduling.

Rassie van der Dussen, a South African batter, commented earlier this week, “If you can remain in one location, stay in a single hotel, practice in the same facilities, and play in the same stadium on consistent pitches, it certainly provides an advantage.”

“It is not difficult to understand that,” he added.

As the semi-finals draw near, both teams are preparing for a demanding schedule and uncertain travel arrangements. Prior to that, Rohit Sharma's team will face New Zealand in their final Group A match, which will determine their place in the semi-finals.

Read Also: India's Assistant Coach Addresses Rishabh Pant's Struggles with Wicketkeeping Choices

"Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!"