Dubai: For the second time in ten days, Virat Kohli reaffirmed his reputation as the ‘Chasemaster’ in One Day Internationals (ODIs), guiding India to the final of the Champions Trophy with a composed 84-run knock. His innings powered India to a four-wicket victory over Australia in the first semifinal at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday (March 4, 2025).

The 36-year-old, who had played a crucial unbeaten century against Pakistan in the league stage, once again displayed remarkable composure, pacing his innings to perfection while avoiding unnecessary risks. He maintained a healthy strike rate, ensuring that India stayed on course in their pursuit of 265.

India’s Chase Led by Kohli and Iyer:

Chasing a competitive target of 265, India got off to a brisk start, thanks to skipper Rohit Sharma’s attacking intent. However, it was Kohli and Shreyas Iyer who provided the stability and momentum, building a crucial 91-run partnership for the third wicket.

Kohli, in his typical style, played the field intelligently, lofting and pulling Nathan Ellis for early boundaries. Meanwhile, Iyer took the attack to left-arm spinner Cooper Connolly, cutting and sweeping him for three quick fours. Their partnership ensured that India remained in control of the chase.

On a pitch regarded as the best batting surface of the tournament, Kohli and Iyer faced little trouble from an underwhelming Australian bowling attack. Kohli brought up his half-century off 53 deliveries, sweeping and pulling leg-spinners Adam Zampa and Tanveer Sangha with precision.

Following Iyer’s dismissal, Kohli built crucial partnerships with Axar Patel and K.L. Rahul. Despite being dropped on 51 by Glenn Maxwell, he continued to anchor the chase. As India edged closer to victory, Kohli attempted an aggressive lofted shot off Zampa but was caught at long-on, departing just 16 runs shy of a century. With 40 runs still needed, Rahul (42* off 34) and Hardik Pandya (28 off 24) provided the finishing touches, delighting the packed crowd with a flurry of boundaries and sixes.

This victory marked India’s first knockout stage win over Australia in an ICC event in 14 years.

Australia’s Effort with the Bat:

Earlier, Australia posted a total of 264, largely built around solid half-centuries from Steve Smith (73) and Alex Carey (61). Travis Head gave the reigning champions a quick start before Smith anchored the innings. The former Australian captain received a lifeline on 36 when Mohammed Shami dropped a catch, allowing him to capitalize and accelerate the scoring rate. Smith’s knock featured well-timed drives and pulls against Varun Chakravarthy.

At the other end, Carey played an aggressive innings, countering the Indian spinners effectively. He executed the sweep shot with precision, paddling Kuldeep Yadav fine and slogging Varun over midwicket for crucial boundaries.

Just as Australia looked to push for a bigger total, Smith’s dismissal triggered a mini-collapse. Charging down the track against Shami, he missed a full-toss and was bowled. In the very next over, Axar Patel knocked over Maxwell’s stumps, reducing Australia to 205 for six in the 38th over.

From there, India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel, tightened the screws, conceding only 51 runs in the last ten overs. Their disciplined effort restricted Australia to a below-par score, setting the stage for another Kohli masterclass.

India Pays Tribute to Padmakar Shivalkar:

Before the match, the Indian team paid tribute to legendary domestic cricketer Padmakar Shivalkar, who passed away recently. The players donned black armbands as a mark of respect, showcasing their appreciation for the left-arm spinner’s contributions to Indian cricket.

Road to the Final:

With this victory, India has secured a place in the final of the Champions Trophy, where they will face the winner of the second semifinal. Rohit Sharma’s men have displayed consistency throughout the tournament, and with Kohli in sublime form, they will be eager to clinch their first ICC trophy since 2023.

As the cricketing world awaits the grand finale, India’s performance in the semifinal serves as a testament to their strength and ability to handle pressure. With Kohli once again proving why he is one of the greatest chasers in the game, Indian fans have every reason to believe that another ICC trophy is within reach.

Author: Ronak Rehal