DUBAI, MAR 04: In a thrilling semi-final at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, India defeated defending champions Australia by four wickets, earning a spot in the tournament’s final.
Australia, opting to bat first, set a target of 264 runs. Captain Steve Smith contributed a notable 73 runs, while Alex Carey added 61. India’s bowling attack, led by Mohammed Shami with figures of 3-48, effectively limited Australia’s total.
India’s chase began with early setbacks, losing openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill promptly. However, a resilient 91-run partnership between Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer stabilized the innings. Kohli’s composed 84 runs off 98 balls underscored his prowess in run chases. KL Rahul’s unbeaten 42 runs ensured India reached the target with 14 balls remaining.
This victory propels India into their third consecutive Champions Trophy final, having previously won in 2013 and finished as runners-up in 2017. They will face the winner of the semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand in the final scheduled for March 9 at the Dubai International Stadium.
