India vs Australia: ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Final Begins in Dubai
The highly anticipated India vs Australia ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final is underway in Dubai. Australia won the toss and opted to bat first. Leading the side, Steve Smith surprised many by including Indian-origin spinner Tanveer Sangha in the playing XI, replacing pacer Spencer Johnson.
India’s Toss Woes Continue
India’s struggle with tosses in ODI cricket continues. The team has now lost 14 consecutive tosses, with the last successful one occurring in the 2023 World Cup semi-final against New Zealand. However, Rohit Sharma remained composed, stating that his team was ready for both batting and bowling conditions.
“When you’re confused, it’s better to lose the toss,” Rohit joked, emphasizing India’s focus on executing their game plan rather than worrying about external factors.
Australia Strengthens Spin Attack
Expecting spin-friendly conditions in Dubai, Australia made two key changes. Cooper Connolly replaced the injured Matt Short, while Tanveer Sangha was brought in for Spencer Johnson. This decision aims to reinforce the team’s spin attack alongside lead spinner Adam Zampa.
“The surface looks dry and should take more turn,” Smith explained while announcing the changes.
India’s Unchanged XI & Tribute to Padmakar Shivalkar
India’s playing XI remained unchanged from their dominant group-stage performances. Additionally, players wore black armbands in memory of Padmakar Shivalkar, the legendary left-arm spinner who passed away on Monday.
Playing XIs for the Semi-Final
India vs Australia playing XIs:
India:
Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy.
Australia:
Cooper Connolly, Travis Head, Steve Smith (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis (wk), Alex Carey, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Tanveer Sangha.
With a spot in the final at stake, both teams will aim to deliver a top-class performance in this high-pressure India vs Australia encounter.
