India secured their place in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final with a thrilling four-wicket victory over Australia in the first semifinal at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. Chasing a target of 265, a classy 84-run knock by Virat Kohli, along with crucial contributions from KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya, guided India to victory with 11 balls to spare.
Australia’s Gritty Batting Effort
After electing to bat first, Australia posted 264 in 49.3 overs, thanks to a determined 73 from Steve Smith and a quickfire 61 by Alex Carey. Travis Head (39 off 33) and Marnus Labuschagne (29 off 36) also chipped in, but India’s disciplined bowling attack prevented the Aussies from accelerating.
Mohammed Shami (3/48) led the attack with brilliance, supported by Ravindra Jadeja (2/40) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/49), who provided crucial breakthroughs. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Australia managed to push past 260, setting a competitive total.
India’s Chase: Kohli’s Brilliance Seals the Win
India got off to a cautious start as Rohit Sharma (28) and Shubman Gill (8) looked to settle in. However, quick strikes from Ben Dwarshuis and Cooper Connolly gave Australia an early advantage.
With India at 82/2, Kohli took control of the chase, crafting a well-paced 84 off 98 balls. His partnership with Shreyas Iyer (45 off 62) stabilized the innings, while Rahul (42 off 34) and Pandya (28 off 24) provided the finishing touches. Despite some late nerves, India reached 267/6 in 48.1 overs, securing their spot in the final.
Kohli’s match-winning 84-run knock earned him the Player of the Match award, once again showcasing his composure under pressure in a knockout clash. With this victory, India marches into the final, awaiting the winner of the second semifinal.
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Fan Reactions
India does it again! A masterclass in chasing led by @imVkohli composure, @ShreyasIyer15 elegance, @klrahul stability, and @hardikpandya7 explosive finish. Pure domination, relentless intent, and a champion mentality on display! This team knows how to handle pressure and deliver…
— Siddharthh Kaul (@iamsidkaul) March 4, 2025
India edge out Australia in a nervy chase to punch their ticket to the #ChampionsTrophy Final #INDvAUS : pic.twitter.com/ftpmHXJ2m4
— ICC (@ICC) March 4, 2025
India has emerged victorious With a stunning victory over Australia, Bharat secures a spot in the #ChampionsTrophy2025 finals. Congratulations Indiaaaaaaa #INDvAUS
— Wazhma Ayoubi (@WazhmaAyoubi) March 4, 2025
Hat-tricks of Champions Trophy finals for India (2013, 2017 and now 2025)
— Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) March 4, 2025
