The India vs Australia clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal is set to be a thrilling contest in Dubai. Both teams have a history of intense knockout battles in ICC tournaments. As they compete for a spot in the final, key player matchups will play a crucial role in determining the winner.
- Virat Kohli vs Adam Zampa: Leg-spin challenge for India’s star batter.
- Travis Head vs Mohammed Shami: Aggression vs experience.
- Josh Inglis vs Varun Chakravarthy & Kuldeep Yadav: Battle in the middle overs.
- Rohit Sharma vs Ben Dwarshuis: Left-arm pace test.
- Glenn Maxwell vs Axar Patel: Spin vs power-hitting.
1. Virat Kohli vs Adam Zampa
Virat Kohli has struggled against leg-spinners in recent years. Adam Zampa has dismissed him five times in 14 ODI meetings. In the ongoing tournament, Kohli also fell to Rishad Hossain against Bangladesh. Zampa’s ability to contain and dismiss Kohli could be a deciding factor for Australia.
2. Travis Head vs Mohammed Shami
Travis Head has been a nightmare for India across formats, often shifting the game’s momentum with his aggressive batting. India will rely on the experienced Mohammed Shami to counter his threat. Dismissing Head early will be vital for India to control the game.
3. Josh Inglis vs Varun Chakravarthy & Kuldeep Yadav
Josh Inglis has been in superb form, including a match-winning 120 against England*. India’s spin duo of Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav will aim to break his rhythm. If India removes the Australian top order, Inglis’ wicket could determine the game’s direction.
4. Rohit Sharma vs Ben Dwarshuis
Rohit Sharma has a known weakness against left-arm pacers. He was dismissed by Shaheen Afridi in the tournament. Ben Dwarshuis, with his swing, will look to exploit this weakness. Rohit has been dismissed by left-arm pacers 37 times in 133 ODIs, making this battle one to watch.
5. Glenn Maxwell vs Axar Patel
Glenn Maxwell is known for his aggressive strokes, especially against spin. Axar Patel, with his accuracy and ability to target the stumps, could challenge Maxwell’s sweeping shots. If Axar finds the right lengths, he could expose Maxwell’s weakness against deliveries skidding onto the stumps.
This semifinal will be shaped by these intense individual battles. India will bank on their spinners and experienced pacers, while Australia will look to their aggressive batting and key bowlers. The winner will secure a place in the Champions Trophy 2025 final, making this an unmissable contest.
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