Dubai: The stage is set for an electrifying final at the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 as India powered through to their third consecutive final with a thrilling four-wicket victory over Australia in the first semi-final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. With this win, India awaits their final opponent, either South Africa or New Zealand, at the same venue this Sunday.

Kohli’s Brilliance Seals India’s Victory

Chasing 265, India faced an early setback when Shubman Gill (8) departed in the fifth over, courtesy of Ben Dwarshuis. Skipper Rohit Sharma followed soon after, falling to Cooper Connolly for a 29-ball 28. Despite losing two key batters early, India found stability through Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer, who built a crucial 91-run partnership.

While Iyer (45 off 62) fell to Adam Zampa, Kohli continued to anchor the innings. He scored a match-winning 84 off 98 balls, laced with five boundaries, before departing in the 43rd over. His knock ensured India remained in control, despite Australia’s attempts to break partnerships at regular intervals.

As the chase neared its conclusion, Hardik Pandya (28 off 24) and KL Rahul (42 off 34)* held their nerves to guide India past the finish line. Rahul remained unbeaten, finishing with two fours and two sixes in his vital knock.

Australian Batting Effort Falls Short

Opting to bat first, Australia managed 264 all out in 49.3 overs, thanks to half-centuries from Steve Smith (73) and Alex Carey (61). However, India’s bowling attack, led by Mohammed Shami (3-48), ensured Australia couldn’t push beyond their total.

The aggressive Travis Head (39 off 33) got off to a quick start, hammering boundaries and sixes reminiscent of his performance in the 2023 World Cup final. However, Varun Chakravarthy dismissed him early, providing India a crucial breakthrough.

While Labuschagne (29) and Smith tried to build momentum, India’s spin attack, led by Jadeja (2-45) and Chakravarthy (2-52), kept the scoring in check. The innings saw multiple partnerships, but wickets at regular intervals prevented Australia from capitalizing on their promising starts.

Dubai to Witness an Iconic Final

This victory marks India’s third straight Champions Trophy final, reinforcing their dominance in the tournament. With their unbeaten run in the competition, they have showcased their strength as a title contender.

Meanwhile, the Dubai International Cricket Stadium is set to host an electrifying final on Sunday, where India will face either South Africa or New Zealand. With the form India has displayed, they will enter the final as strong favorites.

Can India clinch another ICC trophy, or will their opponent pull off a surprise? The cricketing world eagerly awaits Sunday’s showdown!