ICC Champions Trophy 2025 – India vs Australia Semi-Final: One of cricket’s biggest rivalries is set to unfold as India takes on Australia in the first semi-final of the Champions Trophy. Both teams have played exceptional cricket in the tournament, and now, a place in the final is at stake. Australia has won the toss and decided to bat first on a dry and cracked pitch, which is expected to favour spinners. India, on the other hand, will aim to restrict them to a low total. With star players in both lineups, this promises to be a thrilling contest between two cricketing giants.
Pitch Report
Michael Atherton and Ramiz Raja observed that the pitch is dry, cracked, and expected to assist spin. The boundaries measure 77m down the ground, with square boundaries of 69m and 62m. A gentle breeze is present, and batting first is preferred.
Australia Playing XIs
Cooper Connolly, Travis Head, Steven Smith (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis (w), Alex Carey, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Tanveer Sangha
India Playing XIs
Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (w), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy
Captains’ Views
Rohit Sharma: He was ready for both options but felt losing the toss was better when unsure. He emphasized that India has played good cricket and will continue their form. Since they are bowling first, they aim to restrict Australia to a low total.
Steve Smith: He opted to bat first, noting the pitch is dry and expected to assist spinners. He acknowledged India as a strong team and was confident in his squad’s preparation. Australia made two changes—Cooper Connolly replaced Short, and Tanveer Sangha came in for Spencer Johnson.
This semi-final will be a high-intensity clash, and both teams will give their best to reach the final.
