India Storm into Champions Trophy 2025 Final with Thrilling Win Over Australia

Tags: Champions Trophy 2025,
India vs Australia, 1st Semi-Final (A1 v B2) at Lahore, Mar 04, 2025,
India,
Australia,
Virat Kohli

Published on: Mar 04, 2025

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In a high-intensity semi-final clash, India showcased their resilience and skill to defeat Australia by four wickets, securing a place in the final of the Champions Trophy 2025. Virat Kohli’s masterclass knock of 84 guided the Rohit Sharma-led side in a tense chase at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.

Disciplined Bowling Restricts Australia to 264

Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, India’s bowlers delivered a disciplined performance to bundle out Australia for 264. Mohammed Shami led the attack with figures of 3 for 48, while mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy (2/41) and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja (2/46) provided crucial breakthroughs.

For Australia, veteran batter Steve Smith anchored the innings with a steady 73 off 96 balls, but regular wickets at crucial junctures hampered their momentum. Contributions from Travis Head (39) and Glenn Maxwell (35) pushed the total past 250, but India’s bowlers ensured the Aussies never gained complete control.

Kohli’s Brilliance Seals the Chase

Chasing 265, India had a shaky start, losing openers early. However, Virat Kohli, in his trademark style, steadied the innings with a magnificent 84-run knock. He found able support from Shreyas Iyer (45) and KL Rahul, who remained unbeaten on 42 to take India across the finish line in 48.1 overs.

Hardik Pandya’s quickfire 28 provided the much-needed acceleration in the middle overs, while Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant’s early dismissals added to the pressure. Yet, Kohli’s composed innings and Rahul’s calm finishing touch ensured India’s berth in the final.

India Awaits the Final Battle

With this victory, India have marched into the final of the Champions Trophy 2025, where they will face the winner of the second semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand. The final promises to be an exciting encounter, with India aiming to lift the prestigious trophy once again.

As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the summit clash, fans will hope for another stellar performance from Team India, led by their ever-reliable stars. Can they clinch the Champions Trophy? Only time will tell!