KKN Gurugram Desk | The first semi-final of the Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place on March 4, 2025, in Dubai. The highly anticipated match will feature India vs. Australia, two of the strongest teams in the tournament. Team India has remained unbeaten so far, while Australia, despite two rain-affected games, has also avoided a defeat. With both teams in formidable form, cricket fans can expect a high-intensity battle.

India Looks to Avenge 2023 World Cup Final Loss

India not only aims to secure a spot in the final but also seeks revenge for the 2023 ODI World Cup final loss against Australia. The stakes are high, and both teams will go all out to dominate the semi-final. The Indian squad may also make a few strategic changes in the playing XI for this crucial encounter.

India’s Dominance in Group Stage

India has been in exceptional form throughout the group stage, winning all three of their matches:

• Defeated Bangladesh
• Overcame Pakistan
• Beat New Zealand

Australia, on the other hand, played only one complete match due to rain affecting two of their group games. However, they have yet to lose a match, making this semi-final a battle between two undefeated teams.

India’s Probable Playing XI for the Semi-Final

With an eye on the final, India may introduce some tactical changes in their lineup. Let’s take a look at the probable playing XI.

Opening Pair: Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill

• Rohit Sharma has struggled with consistency in the tournament so far. His scores include 41 against Bangladesh, 20 against Pakistan, and 15 against New Zealand.
• The team will expect a big knock from the skipper in this crucial match.
• Shubman Gill, on the other hand, has been in fine form, scoring an unbeaten 101 against Bangladesh. However, he managed 46 against Pakistan and just 2 against New Zealand.
• The opening partnership will be crucial in setting the tone for India’s innings.

Middle Order: Kohli, Iyer, and a Potential Change

• Virat Kohli will take the No. 3 spot. Despite a few underwhelming performances, he scored a century against Pakistan, proving his ability to deliver under pressure.
• Shreyas Iyer is likely to continue at No. 4. His scores in the tournament so far are 15, 56, and 79, making him a key middle-order player.
• A potential change may occur at No. 5, with Rishabh Pant possibly replacing KL Rahul. While Rahul has played some crucial knocks, including 41 against Bangladesh and 23 against New Zealand*, the team may look for a more aggressive option in Pant.

India Might Play Four Spinners

Given the conditions in Dubai, the Indian team may opt for four spinners in their bowling lineup. The expected bowling attack includes:

1. Ravindra Jadeja
2. Axar Patel
3. Kuldeep Yadav
4. Varun Chakravarthy (who was exceptional against New Zealand, taking five wickets)

This spin-heavy approach could be India’s strategy to counter Australia’s batting lineup.

Fast Bowling Department: Shami and Pandya to Lead the Attack

• Mohammed Shami will spearhead the pace attack.
• Hardik Pandya will play a dual role as a seam-bowling all-rounder.
• With Jadeja, Axar, and Pandya in the lineup, India’s batting depth will also be an advantage.

Australia’s Challenge: A Well-Balanced Squad

The Australian team, despite limited game time in the tournament, has remained unbeaten. Their top order is in solid form, and their bowling attack, featuring experienced pacers and spinners, poses a serious threat.

Match Expectations: A High-Stakes Encounter

The India vs. Australia semi-final is expected to be a nail-biting contest. Both teams are strong contenders, making this clash one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament. If India wins, they will have a chance to erase the painful memories of the 2023 World Cup final and fight for another ICC title.

Match Details

• Match: India vs. Australia, Semi-Final 1
• Date: March 4, 2025
• Venue: Dubai Cricket Stadium
• Time: 7:00 PM IST

With everything at stake, can India secure their spot in the final, or will Australia once again break Indian hearts? Fans worldwide will be glued to their screens for this epic showdown.

Stay tuned for all the latest updates and analysis on Champions Trophy 2025!