On March 4, 2025, a captivating Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final took place at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, featuring India and Australia. The intense match concluded with India achieving a 4-wicket triumph, advancing to the final, courtesy of Virat Kohli’s pivotal 84 and a disciplined bowling effort.
Under the leadership of Steve Smith, Australia batted first and scored 264 runs. Travis Head’s quick 39 was halted by Varun Chakravarthy, whereas Smith’s elegant 73 and Alex Carey’s 61 established a 50-run partnership. Nevertheless, Mohammed Shami’s 3/48 and Ravindra Jadeja’s spin caused a sudden collapse—Australia lost their final four wickets for just 29 runs, ending with three balls remaining.
Pursuing 265, India faltered to 43/2, with Rohit Sharma (28) and Shubman Gill dismissed early. Kohli took the lead, scoring 84 off 92, and collaborated with Shreyas Iyer (45) for a partnership of 91 runs. Adam Zampa got Iyer out, yet Kohli remained steady. Hardik Pandya’s fiery 28, which featured three sixes, brought the target down to 40 runs off 44 balls. Despite Pandya being dismissed by Nathan Ellis, KL Rahul’s not out 42, highlighted by a massive six off Glenn Maxwell, secured India’s score of 267/6 in 48.1 overs.
Significant highlights featured Shami’s late rally, Kohli’s exceptional chasing skills—garnering him Player of the Match—and Rahul’s decisive finish, representing India’s fifth appearance in a Champions Trophy final. This victory redeemed the defeat in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia, with Rohit Sharma making history as the first captain to appear in all ICC tournament finals.
India is now looking forward to facing New Zealand or South Africa in the final on March 9 in Dubai, aiming for a third title. Australia, without their pace trio, displayed determination through Smith and Head. Viewed live on Star Sports and Disney+ Hotstar, #INDvAUS became a trending topic as fans rejoiced. India’s stellar generation reaches its zenith—will anyone thwart them?
Edited By Shvetank Maurya
