India captain Rohit Sharma praised his team’s resilience after a 44-run victory over New Zealand in Dubai, securing their top spot in Group A of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. India remains unbeaten in the tournament and is set to face Australia in the semi-finals on March 4. Rohit emphasized the need to “get everything right” against a team known for its strong ICC record.
- India secured a semi-final spot after defeating New Zealand by 44 runs.
- Australia vs India semi-final set for March 4.
- Rohit Sharma stresses focus and execution in the knockout match.
- India’s bowlers, especially Varun Chakaravarthy, played a crucial role.
India’s Dominant Performance in Group Stage
India delivered a flawless group-stage campaign, winning all three matches. Rohit Sharma acknowledged the team’s adaptability, emphasizing the importance of quickly fixing mistakes in a short tournament. The victory over New Zealand showcased India’s strong bowling attack and middle-order resilience.
India vs New Zealand: Match Highlights
- India batted first and posted 249/9.
- Shreyas Iyer (79 off 98) and Axar Patel (42) stabilized the innings after early setbacks.
- Matt Henry (5/42) dismantled India’s top order, removing Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and Hardik Pandya.
- New Zealand struggled in the chase, bowled out for 205.
- Varun Chakaravarthy (5/38) made a memorable debut, destroying the Kiwi batting lineup.
Rohit Sharma’s Strategy Against Australia
With Australia’s strong ICC history, Rohit Sharma knows the semi-final won’t be easy. He emphasized the importance of staying focused, executing plans, and minimizing errors.
“Australia has a history of playing well in ICC tournaments. We have to be focused and get things right on the day.” – Rohit Sharma
The Indian captain believes the team has shown improvement by quickly correcting mistakes. He praised the squad’s positive intent and their ability to bounce back under pressure.
India’s Strengths Heading Into the Semi-Final
- Balanced Squad: Strong mix of batting and bowling depth.
- Spin Dominance: Varun Chakaravarthy and Axar Patel key assets.
- Middle-Order Resilience: Shreyas Iyer proving his worth.
- Bowling Attack: Seamers and spinners performing in crucial moments.
What to Expect in the Semi-Final?
India will need to counter Australia’s aggressive style while ensuring their own batting and bowling units perform consistently. The match will be a high-stakes battle, with both teams aiming for a place in the final.
Possible Challenges for India
- Handling Australia’s pace attack.
- Overcoming pressure in a knockout match.
- Tackling Australian middle-order batters.
With momentum on their side, India is confident but aware of the tough challenge ahead. Rohit Sharma and his squad will need to bring their A-game to secure a spot in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final.
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ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Matches
Pakistan vs New Zealand - 1st Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs India - 2nd Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs South Africa - 3rd Match, Group B | Australia vs England - 4th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs India - 5th Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs New Zealand - 6th Match, Group A | Australia vs South Africa - 7th Match, Group B | Afghanistan vs England - 8th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs Bangladesh - 9th Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs Australia - 10th Match, Group B | England vs South Africa - 11th Match, Group B | New Zealand vs India - 12th Match, Group A | TBA vs TBA, 1st Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, 2nd Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, Final |
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Teams
PAKISTAN | NEW ZEALAND | BANGLADESH | INDIA | AFGHANISTAN | SOUTH AFRICA | AUSTRALIA | ENGLAND
