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IND vs AUS: Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Final Preview
Get ready for a cricketing clash of titans! India and Australia will face off in the highly anticipated semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on March 4th at the Dubai International Stadium. This match promises to be a thrilling encounter, given the historical rivalry and the stakes involved. Will India avenge their World Cup final loss, or will Australia continue their dominance?
India's Path to the Semi-Finals
India topped their group after a convincing win over New Zealand on March 2nd. Their strong performances throughout the group stage showcased their all-round strength and adaptability. The team's success hinges on their potent batting lineup and the spin prowess they can unleash on the Dubai pitch.
Australia's Road to the Semi-Finals
Australia secured their semi-final spot after finishing second in their group behind South Africa. Their journey wasn’t without its challenges, with rain affecting several matches. However, their strong net run rate secured their place in the knockout stages. The team faces significant challenges, however, with several key bowlers injured.
Key Factors: Bowling and Spin
Australia's depleted bowling attack is a significant concern. The absence of key pacers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc presents a clear advantage to India’s formidable batting order. India's spinners, especially Varun Chakravarthy (who recently took a five-wicket haul against New Zealand), are poised to exploit the Dubai pitch conditions. India's spin arsenal could be the deciding factor.
Head-to-Head and Prediction
Historically, Australia holds a significant edge in ODIs against India (84 wins to India's 57). However, this particular semi-final presents a unique scenario. Considering India's form, home advantage (having played all group matches in Dubai), and Australia's bowling woes, India has a strong chance of winning. While underestimating Australia is risky, India's superior all-round strength makes them the slight favorites.
Predicted XIs
India: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy
Australia: Travis Head, Steven Smith (C), Josh Inglis (WK), Marnus Labuschagne, Alex Carey, Glenn Maxwell, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson
Where to Watch
Catch all the action live on Star Sports HD1 and Star Sports HD2, or stream it live on JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar. Don't miss this epic encounter!
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