IND vs AUS(Credit: X@BCCI)
India National Cricket Team vs Australia National Cricket Team Match Scorecard: Dubai, March 4: India secured a thrilling four-wicket victory over Australia in the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at the Dubai International Stadium, chasing down 264 with 11 balls to spare. The win propels India into the final, keeping their hopes alive for another ICC title.
Smith, Carey Anchor Australia to 264
After winning the toss, Australia opted to bat first, but their innings never fully took off as India’s bowlers kept them in check. Travis Head provided an aggressive start with 39 off 33 balls, but his dismissal opened the door for India.
The middle order was stabilized by Steve Smith, who played a composed knock of 73 off 96 balls, anchoring the innings. Alex Carey’s 61 off 57 balls added crucial runs, ensuring Australia reached a competitive total. However, they fell short of maximizing their potential as Mohammed Shami (3/48) and Ravindra Jadeja (2/40) struck at regular intervals. Varun Chakaravarthy also impressed, picking up 2/49 in his 10 overs.
Australia was eventually bowled out for 264 in 49.3 overs, setting a target that looked competitive on the spin-friendly Dubai pitch.
Kohli’s Brilliance Guides India to Victory
Chasing 265, India had a cautious start but gained momentum as Virat Kohli played yet another match-winning knock. His 84 off 98 balls was the backbone of India’s chase, ensuring stability in the middle overs.
Shreyas Iyer (45 off 62) and KL Rahul (42 off 34)* provided vital contributions, keeping the required run rate under control. The finishing touches were applied by Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, who ensured there were no last-minute hiccups.
Australian Bowlers Put Up a Fight
Despite defending a modest total, Australia’s bowlers fought hard. Nathan Ellis (2/49) and Adam Zampa (2/60) bowled well, but the lack of a big total to defend hurt them. Cooper Connolly, playing in a crucial knockout game, picked up 1/37 in his 8 overs, showing promise with the ball.
India Marches into the Final
With this win, India has now secured a place in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final and will await the winner of the second semi-final. The team will look to continue their dominance and clinch yet another ICC title.
Match Summary:
Australia: 264 all out (49.3 overs)
- Steve Smith – 73 (96)
- Alex Carey – 61 (57)
- Mohammed Shami – 3/48 (10)
- Ravindra Jadeja – 2/40 (8)
- Varun Chakaravarthy – 2/49 (10)
India: 267/6 (48.1 overs)
- Virat Kohli – 84 (98)
- Shreyas Iyer – 45 (62)
- KL Rahul – 42* (34)
- Nathan Ellis – 2/49 (10)
- Adam Zampa – 2/60 (10)
India won by 4 wickets (11 balls left).
