Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer then began to rebuild
In a thrilling semi-final clash at the 2025 Champions Trophy, India edged out Australia by four wickets, securing their spot in the tournament’s final.
The match showcased remarkable performances from both sides, culminating in a nail-biting finish.
The much-anticipated semi-final was held in Dubai.
Going into the match, India were the heavy favourites, with some believing they are almost certain to win the Champions Trophy.
However, Australia had bragging rights as they had defeated India in the 2024 ICC World Cup final.
Australia, after choosing to bat first, posted 264 runs.
Australia’s innings started poorly, with Cooper Connolly and Travis Head falling early.
Steve Smith steadied the ship with a composed 73 before Mohammed Shami bowled him out.
Marnus Labuschagne added 56, while Alex Carey’s 60 runs gave Australia much-needed momentum. But the lower order couldn’t capitalise, and the innings ended in 49.3 overs.
India’s bowling attack kept things tight. Shami was the pick of the pacers, taking three wickets, including the crucial one of Smith.
Varun Chakravarthy’s spin rattled the Australians, as he dismissed Head and Ben Dwarshuis, another key batter.
Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel controlled the middle overs, preventing Australia from accelerating late.
Chasing 265, India lost Shubman Gill early as he chopped onto his stumps for eight.
Rohit Sharma looked to counter-attack but was trapped lbw by Connolly for 28.
At 43/2, the pressure was on. Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer then began to rebuild, with Kohli looking composed and Iyer providing solid support.
Their partnership was crucial against a disciplined Australian attack.
Despite Iyer falling for 45, Kohli’s experience and composure were on display as India steadily reached the target.
India’s run rate slowed down and at one point, they required 70 runs from 70 balls.
At the 40-over mark, India was 200-4, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.
India upped the run rate but a major moment came when Kohli was dismissed for 84.
His dismissal brought KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya to the crease, who added crucial runs to bring India closer to the target.
With 26 runs needed from the final overs, KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya exhibited composure under pressure.
Their partnership guided India to the brink of victory, with Pandya’s aggressive stroke play proving decisive before he went out for 28.
Ultimately, India scored 267/6, winning by four wickets.
They will now play in the Champions Trophy final against either South Africa or New Zealand.
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