India’s semi-final hopes against Australia in the Champions Trophy took a hit after Rohit Sharma’s dismissal via LBW by Cooper Connolly at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The Indian skipper reviewed the decision, but ball-tracking confirmed three reds, wasting a Decision Review System (DRS) call. At the time, India was 55/2 in 10 overs, needing 210 more runs to chase Australia’s 265-run target.
- Rohit Sharma LBW dismissal wasted a crucial DRS review.
- India was already struggling with Shubman Gill’s early dismissal.
- Australia gained a significant advantage with India losing a review.
Rohit and Kohli’s DRS Blunder
In the 7.5 over, Connolly bowled a full-length delivery angled back on middle stump. Rohit Sharma attempted a sweep but missed, and the ball hit his front pad. The umpire immediately raised his finger. Rohit, uncertain, briefly discussed with Virat Kohli before opting for the DRS review at the last moment.
The UltraEdge showed no bat involved, and the ball-tracking system confirmed three reds, leading to Rohit’s dismissal for 28 off 29 balls. This decision wasted a crucial review, reducing India’s chances in a high-pressure match.
— kuchnahi123@12345678 (@kuchnahi1269083) March 4, 2025
India’s Final Chances Take a Hit
India was already struggling after Shubman Gill fell to Ben Dwarshuis for 8 runs. Losing a key review added to the team’s difficulties. With only one review left, India had to be extra cautious moving forward.
Australia’s Tight Bowling Strategy
Australia’s bowlers, especially Cooper Connolly and Ben Dwarshuis, maintained pressure on the Indian batters. Their disciplined bowling made the run chase increasingly difficult. Losing both Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma early meant Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer had to take responsibility to anchor the innings.
Match Situation at 10 Overs
- India: 55/2
- Target: 265 runs
- Runs Required: 210
- Overs Left: 40
- Key Batters: Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer
Mistakes That Cost India
- Wasting DRS: Rohit’s review call backfired, reducing available challenges.
- Early Wickets: Losing two key batters early put pressure on the middle order.
- Australia’s Tight Bowling: The disciplined attack made scoring difficult.
What Next for India?
With Kohli and Iyer at the crease, India needed a steady partnership. The team had to play cautiously, avoiding unnecessary risks. Losing another wicket early could end their semi-final hopes.
The DRS mistake by Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli could prove costly in this crucial semi-final match. Wasting a review and losing an important wicket handed Australia a big advantage. India now faced an uphill battle in their Champions Trophy chase.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
