India Storms into Champions Trophy Final with Thrilling Four-Wicket Victory Over Australia

Dubai, March 4: India secured a spot in the Champions Trophy final after defeating Australia by four wickets in a high-intensity semifinal clash on Tuesday. Star batter Virat Kohli led the chase with a brilliant 84-run knock-off 98 balls, guiding India to a well-earned victory with 11 balls to spare.

Australia, batting first, posted 264 before being bowled out in 49.3 overs, with captain Steve Smith (73 off 96) and wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey (61) leading the charge. Smith formed two key partnerships—a 50-run stand with Travis Head (39) for the second wicket and a 56-run stand with Marnus Labuschagne (29) for the third—helping Australia cross the 260-mark.

India’s bowling attack delivered a clinical performance, with Mohammed Shami (3/38) emerging as the pick of the bowlers.  Ravindra Jadeja (2/40) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/49) provided crucial breakthroughs, ensuring that Australia couldn’t capitalize in the final overs.

Chasing 265 for victory, India’s top order responded with confidence.  Kohli anchored the innings, while Shreyas Iyer (45), KL Rahul (42), and Hardik Pandya (28) provided valuable contributions. Despite losing a few wickets in the middle overs, India maintained control, sealing the win at 267/6 in 48.1 overs.

With this victory, India advances to the Champions Trophy final, setting the stage for an electrifying title clash.