In a thrilling encounter at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, the India Masters secured a resounding 94-run victory over the Australia Masters in the first semi-final of the International Masters League T20 2025. The match, held on March 13, 2025, saw the India Masters dominate both with the bat and the ball to book their place in the final.
After winning the toss and opting to bowl first, the Australia Masters faced a formidable batting display from the India Masters. The Indian team posted an imposing total of 220/7 in their 20 overs. Ambati Rayudu led the charge with a blistering 58 off 10 balls, while captain Sachin Tendulkar contributed a solid 42 off 30 balls. Yuvraj Singh’s explosive 59 off 30 balls and Stuart Binny’s quickfire 36 off 21 balls further bolstered the Indian innings. The Australia Masters’ bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, with Steve O’Keefe and Daniel Christian picking up two wickets each.
In response, the Australia Masters faltered early, losing key wickets at regular intervals. Shane Watson, the captain, managed to score 54 off 10 balls, but his efforts were in vain as the rest of the batting lineup crumbled. Vinay Kumar and Shahbaz Nadeem were the standout bowlers for India, with Vinay Kumar taking 2 wickets for 20 runs and Nadeem claiming 4 wickets for 15 runs. The Australia Masters were eventually bowled out for 126 in 18.1 overs, falling well short of the target.
The victory was a comprehensive team effort by the India Masters, with both bat and ball contributing to their success. The win propels the India Masters into the final of the International Masters League T20 2025, where they will face the winner of the second semi-final between Sri Lanka Masters and West Indies Masters.
The match was a testament to the high level of competition in the International Masters League, with both teams showcasing their skills and determination. Fans can look forward to an exciting final as the India Masters aim to clinch the title.
