Virat Kohli’s impressive innings of 84 runs off 98 balls guided India to a four-wicket victory over Australia, securing their place in the final of the Champions Trophy. Kohli’s 74th ODI half-century contributed significantly to India’s successful chase of 265, finishing with a score of 6-267 in response to Australia’s 264 all out.
Mohammed Shami shone with the ball for India, claiming 3 wickets for 48 runs in 10 overs, effectively limiting the Australians on a challenging pitch. Kohli reflected on the match dynamics, stating, “This game is all about pressure – if you go deep, the opposition usually gives in.”
Australia, after winning the toss and electing to bat, saw Steve Smith as their top scorer with 73 runs from 96 balls. Indian spinners Varun Chakravarthy and Ravindra Jadeja each took two wickets, putting Australia on the back foot during their innings. Smith acknowledged the difficulties of batting, noting how the bowlers performed well in the tough conditions.
The key for India was the solid partnership between Kohli and Shreyas Iyer, which saw them adding 91 runs for the third wicket. Lokesh Rahul’s swift unbeaten 42 off 34 balls capped off the innings, leading India to achieve the highest chase against Australia in an ICC event.
India’s road to victory began when Shami struck early, dismissing Cooper Connolly for a duck. Smith steadied the Australian innings alongside Travis Head, who managed to score 39 runs before being caught out. Labuschagne and Smith built another partnership but were kept in check by India’s spinners.
Despite a rocky start, Australia managed to post a score exceeding 250, with Alex Carey making 50 off 48 balls to stabilise the innings after a mid-order collapse. However, after Carey’s run-out, the team’s efforts fell short of a more competitive total.
In response, India’s batting order faced some difficulties, but Kohli and Iyer’s partnership maintained a steady run rate. Kohli reached his half-century with five boundaries, while Iyer’s contributions were crucial until he fell to Adam Zampa. Despite losing Kohli later in the innings, Rahul’s finishing touch ensured a smooth chase.
After the match, Rohit Sharma expressed satisfaction with their performance, citing the challenging nature of the pitch and praising the team’s composure and strategy. As a result, India advances to the final in Dubai, where they will face either South Africa or New Zealand.