India has advanced to the final of the Champions Trophy 2025, securing their place with a convincing four-wicket victory over Australia at the Dubai International Stadium on March 4. This win brings the Indian cricket team one step closer to reclaiming the ICC title, which has eluded them for 12 years, with their last triumph coming in 2013.
The match showcased India’s dominance across various facets of the game, but one looming concern casts a shadow over their success: the health of all-rounder Hardik Pandya. During the 47th over of India's innings, he appeared to sustain what looked like a leg injury. While completing runs after hitting Adam Zampa to extra cover, Pandya suddenly halted his sprint, as he was halted by KL Rahul's call to return. This abrupt stop led to him limping off the field, and his ability to play in the upcoming final on March 9 now hangs in the balance.
Nevertheless, the team showcased remarkable resilience, buoyed by pivotal contributions from key players. Virat Kohli emerged as the star of the match, scoring 84 runs off 98 balls. His innings proved to be instrumental, steering the team through to chase down Australia's competitive score of 264. The batting effort was not one-man show, though; notable contributions came from Shreyas Iyer, who scored 45 runs, and KL Rahul, who finished unbeaten at 42. Rohit Sharma and Axar Patel also chipped in with scores of 28 and 27 runs, respectively, creating a well-rounded attack against the Australian bowling lineup.
Bowling first, India restricted their opponents effectively, thanks largely to Mohammed Shami, who claimed three wickets and made significant contributions toward dismantling the Australian batting order. Despite the defeat, Australian players put forth commendable performances, led by their captain, who defended their total with grit. The intense competition, mixed with strategic play by both teams, resulted in the match being described as thrilling.
Former Indian stars lauded the team’s effort, particularly highlighting Pandya's impact on the game prior to his injury. Yuvraj Singh took to X to express his excitement, stating, "Finals here we come! 🇮🇳🔥 Bowlers did the job with @MdShami11 leading from the front & keeping the Aussies in check. Great partnership between @imVkohli and @ShreyasIyer15 handling the pressure and then @klrahul and @hardikpandya7 taking the game away at the end! One step away from glory - let’s get it boys! 💪🏆 #INDvsAUS #ChampionsTrophy #CT2025.”
Similarly, Harbhajan Singh praised the team’s overall performance. "VIRAT win for #TeamIndia! Indian players consistently displayed talent and perseverance throughout the match. @imVkohli played another fabulous innings. @MdShami11 delivered the key wickets. And, what powerful innings by @klrahul and @hardikpandya7! Above all, it was a well-deserved victory against the mighty Australia. Best wishes for the final,” he mentioned on his X account.
The cricket community now awaits updates from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) concerning Pandya's condition. If his injury proves serious, it may pose significant challenges for India as they head toward the decisive match against their opponents, vying for the prestigious title once more.
Overall, the semi-final was met with enthusiasm as it highlighted the prowess of the Indian cricket team on the world stage, showcasing both their strategic abilities and the depth of their squad. With skills developed over years of competitive play and unyielding determination present at every level, India stands poised for what could potentially be their crowning moment. The focus now shifts entirely to recovery and preparation as they aim for victory at the grand finale.