Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer lead India’s recovery after early setbacks in the Champions Trophy semi-final against Australia, keeping their hopes alive in the chase of 265 runs.
March 4, 2025: The high-octane semi-final clash between India and Australia in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 continues to live up to its billing, with Team India showing resilience in their chase of 265 runs at the Dubai International Stadium. Despite losing both openers early, a composed partnership between Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer has steadied the ship for India, keeping them on course for a spot in the final.
Kohli’s Historic Achievement
Virat Kohli, known as the ultimate chase-master, has once again stepped up in a crucial match. In the process, he achieved a remarkable feat, becoming the second batter in the world after Sachin Tendulkar to score 8,000 runs in ODI chases. Additionally, Kohli now boasts an astonishing 60-plus average in successful ODI chases, a testament to his unparalleled consistency under pressure. He also scored his 50 in 54 balls
Match Summary: India’s Chase
India’s run chase got off to a shaky start with both openers dismissed early. Captain Rohit Sharma, after playing a few aggressive strokes, fell for 28 off 29 balls, while Shubman Gill was bowled for 8. Australia looked set to tighten their grip on the match, but Kohli and Iyer had other plans.
At the 25-over mark, India stood at 131/2, needing 134 more runs at a required run rate of 5.53. Kohli remained steady at 50 off 54 balls, while Iyer provided solid support with an unbeaten 44 off 57 balls.
Australia’s First Innings Performance
Earlier, Australia posted a competitive total of 264 runs in 49.3 overs, led by Steve Smith’s 73 off 96 balls. Alex Carey played a crucial knock of 61 from 57 deliveries, while Travis Head provided early momentum with a quickfire 39. However, disciplined bowling from India ensured that the Aussies couldn’t cross the 280-run mark.
Indian Bowling Standouts
- Mohammed Shami: 3/48 in 9 overs, including key wickets at crucial junctures.
- Varun Chakravarthy: 2/49, proving to be a tricky challenge for the Australian batters.
- Ravindra Jadeja: 2/40, keeping the scoring rate in check with his tight lines.
- Axar Patel & Hardik Pandya: One wicket each, contributing to Australia’s struggles in the latter stages.
Live Updates: Key Moments in India’s Chase
- 19.4 Overs: Kohli sweeps Tanveer Sangha for a four, bringing up India’s 100-run mark.
- 19 Overs: Kohli crosses 8,000 ODI chase runs, further cementing his status as the GOAT of run chases.
- 10 Overs: India reach 55/2 at the end of the powerplay, with Kohli and Iyer looking solid.
- 7.5 Overs: Rohit Sharma departs for 28, attempting an aggressive shot but getting caught behind.
- 5 Overs: Shubman Gill is bowled by a deceptive delivery from Ben Dwarshuis, leaving India at 30/1.
Pitch Analysis and Match Outlook
The Dubai pitch has played slightly better than expected, with the ball coming onto the bat nicely. However, the track remains on the slower side, favoring spinners. Australia will look to exploit this with Adam Zampa and Glenn Maxwell, while India will aim to capitalize on the short boundaries.
With Kohli and Iyer well set at the crease, India’s hopes of chasing down the total remain strong. The required run rate is well within reach, and if these two can build a solid foundation, the lower middle-order featuring KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, and Ravindra Jadeja will have the platform to finish the job.
Conclusion: Can India Avenge Their 2023 WC Final Defeat?
This semi-final clash holds extra significance as India looks to avenge their 2023 ODI World Cup final loss to Australia. With Kohli at the crease and Iyer playing a confident knock, India is in a strong position. However, Australia has a history of stepping up in knockout matches, making this contest an edge-of-the-seat thriller.
Stay tuned for live updates as the game unfolds!
Tags: India vs Australia, Champions Trophy 2025, ICC Cricket, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Shami, India Cricket, Australia Cricket, Cricket Live Score, Cricket Semi-Final, Dubai Cricket, Sports News, ICC Knockouts