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India booked their spot in the Champions Trophy 2025 final with a thrilling four-wicket victory over Australia at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on March 4. They will now face the winner of the South Africa vs New Zealand semifinal, scheduled for tomorrow in Pakistan.
Chasing a target of 265, India became the first team in this tournament to surpass 250 runs in Dubai. Historically, the venue has witnessed only three successful chases above 250, with Sri Lanka’s 285-run pursuit against Pakistan in 2013 remaining the highest.
Australia, after choosing to bat first, put up a total of 264 before being bowled out in 49.3 overs. Their innings started on a shaky note as Mohammad Shami dismissed Cooper Connolly for a duck. Travis Head provided a steady start with 39 runs before falling to Varun Chakravarthy. Skipper Steve Smith anchored the innings with a crucial 73, while Alex Carey contributed 61 off 57 balls before an unfortunate run-out.
India’s bowlers maintained their grip on the game, restricting Australia from reaching a massive total. Shami led the attack with three wickets, while Varun Chakravarthy and Ravindra Jadeja claimed two each. Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel also chipped in with a wicket apiece.
In response, India’s chase was powered by Virat Kohli, who played a composed 82-run knock, keeping the innings stable despite early setbacks. Hardik Pandya provided a much-needed boost in the middle order, smashing 47 off just 32 balls, including three sixes, ensuring India stayed ahead in the game. With valuable contributions from Shubman Gill (38) and KL Rahul (29), India successfully reached the target with eight balls to spare.
With this victory, India moves into the final with momentum on their side, one step closer to lifting the Champions Trophy.