The India vs Australia rivalry has produced some of the most intense and memorable matches in cricket history. In the latest chapter of this legendary contest, India secured a thrilling four-wicket victory over Australia in the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final in Dubai. This victory not only propelled India to their third consecutive final but also broke the 3-3 deadlock in ICC white-ball knockout matches between the two teams, a rivalry that began with the 1998 Champions Trophy quarter-final.
Match Summary
Australia’s Innings
Winning the toss, Australia opted to bat first and set a target of 264 runs. Their innings was anchored by Steve Smith’s 73-run knock, while Alex Carey contributed 61 runs. However, India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah (3/45) and Kuldeep Yadav (2/52), restricted Australia from posting a bigger total.
Despite a steady start, Australia lost wickets at crucial moments, preventing them from capitalizing on their foundation. India’s disciplined bowling ensured they had a manageable chase ahead.
India’s Chase
Chasing 265, India got off to a confident start with Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma, but it was Virat Kohli’s composed 84-run knock that played the defining role in the chase. With key contributions from KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya, India crossed the finish line in 48 overs with six wickets in hand.
Australia’s bowling attack struggled to break through consistently, and India capitalized on the weakened attack to secure their place in yet another Champions Trophy final.
India vs Australia: The Knockout Rivalry
Before this match, India vs Australia in ICC white-ball knockout matches had a 3-3 record. This victory gave India an edge, making the head-to-head record 4-3 in India’s favor.
Some key encounters between the two teams include:
- 1998 Champions Trophy Quarter-Final – India won.
- 2003 World Cup Final – Australia won.
- 2007 T20 World Cup Semi-Final – India won.
- 2015 World Cup Semi-Final – Australia won.
- 2016 T20 World Cup Quarter-Final – India won.
- 2023 World Cup Final – Australia won.
- 2025 Champions Trophy Semi-Final – India won.
This victory strengthens India’s dominance in ICC knockout games against their arch-rivals.
India’s Historic Champions Trophy Streak
With this win, India has now reached their third consecutive Champions Trophy final, underlining their consistency in white-ball cricket.
- 2017 Final: Lost to Pakistan.
- 2021 Final: Defeated England.
- 2025 Final: Awaiting their opponent.
India will now face the winner of the New Zealand vs South Africa semi-final for the prestigious title.
Conclusion
The India vs Australia semi-final once again showcased the competitive spirit between these two cricketing giants. India’s ability to handle pressure, combined with exceptional performances from Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah, ensured their place in the final.
With momentum on their side, India now looks forward to clinching their third Champions Trophy title, and fans will be hoping for another historic triumph in the final.
