Australia faced off against India on March 4, 2025, in the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy, where they succumbed to defeat by four wickets after putting up a commendable fight. The match, held at the Dubai International Stadium, was marked by several standout performances from both teams.
Upon winning the toss, Australian captain Steve Smith opted to bat first, believing the dry pitch would favor their spin bowlers later on. Smith stated, “The pitch looks drier; it will take some turn. We’re batting first.” This decision was met with mixed reactions, considering the likelihood of varying pitch conditions as the match progressed.
Australia innings got underway with both apprehension and promise. Steve Smith, demonstrating calmness and ingenuity, scored 73 runs off 96 deliveries. He held the Australian innings together, contributing significantly after opener Cooper Connolly was dismissed for naught on the very first ball he faced, edging Mohammed Shami to K. L. Rahul behind the stumps.
Alex Carey, securing 61 runs off 57 balls, supported Smith effectively, as they steered the score to 264 runs within their allotted 49.3 overs. The innings, initially set to soar over 300 runs, faced turbulence when Smith fell to Shami after missing a full toss. This led to the collapse of Australia’s batting order, where six wickets fell for just 66 runs, limiting their final score.
India’s bowlers were dominant, particularly Shami, who captured 3 wickets for 48 runs, and spinners Varun Chakaravarthy and Ravindra Jadeja, who each bagged two wickets.
India entered their batting innings needing to chase 265 runs. Virat Kohli emerged as the standout performer, scoring 84 runs, effortlessly guiding India toward the target. His well-composed innings was pivotal, showcasing his classic stroke play and ability to anchor the innings under pressure.
Shreyas Iyer lent valuable support, scoring 45 runs, as both started to build what seemed like a comfortable chase. The duo's dismissal by Adam Zampa, who took two wickets, raised concerns for India, forcing them to dig deep. Kohli noted after the match, “Australia set 264 runs, and we came back strong.”
With 27 runs required off 24 balls and pressure mounting, Hardik Pandya stepped up to the plate, hitting two sixes to ease nerves, but he fell shortly thereafter. The closing overs kept fans on edge, but K. L. Rahul, who finished with 42 not out off 34 balls, struck the winning runs with deft handling, solidifying India’s run chase with 11 balls to spare.
The match's up-and-down nature highlighted both teams' resilience and tactical prowess. It offered cricket fans memorable moments, including young Tanveer Sangha, who made his tournament debut for Australia amid high expectations. Though Sangha did not have the spotlight as some hoped, his inclusion indicates Australia's faith in ushering new talent.
India's four-wicket victory marks another chapter of excellence as they rush forward to face either New Zealand or South Africa for the trophy. After showcasing significant depth and experience throughout the match, India now finds itself one step closer to repeating history as champions of the ICC Champions Trophy. With both teams showing aptitude for high-pressure scenarios, cricket enthusiasts can anticipate thrilling final rounds.
With this victory, India has set the stage as favorites heading to the final, armed with confidence and formidable form. The match also symbolizes the emergence of fresh talent on the pitch, like Sangha's potential future contributions. Cricket fans around the world will undoubtedly keep their eyes on the final, hoping for similarly riveting encounters.