India booked their spot in the Champions Trophy 2025 final with a thrilling four-wicket victory over Australia in the semi-final in Dubai on Tuesday. Virat Kohli was the star with the bat, scoring a crucial 84 off 98 balls, while Hardik Pandya played a match-winning cameo to take India over the line.
Hardik Pandya’s Explosive Finish
Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir’s reaction on kung fu pandya’s big sixes pic.twitter.com/7x5d1dOOPk
— ••TAUKIR•• (@iitaukir) March 4, 2025
Chasing 265, India found themselves needing 27 runs off the last 24 balls. Enter Hardik Pandya, who turned the game in India’s favor with his fearless hitting. His 28 off 24 balls, which included one four and three sixes, proved to be the difference. Two of his sixes off Adam Zampa sent the crowd into a frenzy, while Virat Kohli’s animated reaction from the dressing room quickly went viral on social media.
Kohli’s Masterclass in a High-Pressure Chase
Batting on a challenging pitch, Kohli anchored the chase with a controlled innings, forming key partnerships with:
- Shreyas Iyer (45 runs)
- KL Rahul (42 runs)
- Hardik Pandya (28 runs)
Kohli ensured the scoreboard kept ticking, allowing Pandya to finish the chase in style.
Australia’s First Innings Effort
Earlier, Australia posted 264 in 49.3 overs, led by:
- Steve Smith (73 off 96 balls)
- Alex Carey (61 runs)
- Travis Head (39 runs)
Despite strong partnerships, Australia struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack.
India’s Bowlers Shine
India’s bowlers put up a clinical performance:
- Mohammed Shami: 3/38
- Varun Chakravarthy & Ravindra Jadeja: 2 wickets each
Their efforts restricted Australia below 270, setting up a manageable chase.
India Awaits Final Clash
With this victory, India advances to the Champions Trophy final, where they will face the winner of the second semi-final. The highly anticipated final will take place in Dubai on March 9, 2025.
Conclusion
Virat Kohli’s experience and Hardik Pandya’s finishing ability played a crucial role in India’s triumph. As the team prepares for the final, fans are eager to see if India can lift the Champions Trophy once again.
