India Storms into Champions Trophy 2025 Final, Defeats Australia
Dubai: After 2000, 2002, 2013, and 2017, now in 2025, India has reached into the final of the Champions Trophy for the fifth time. In the semi-finals on Tuesday night, India crushed Australia by four wickets. Virat Kohli's (84) bat roared in this spectacular victory in ind vs aug.
Hardik Pandya’s Fireworks Thrill the Nation
When India's victory was almost certain or confirmed, Hardik Pandya played a thrilling cameo into that electrified the entire country. One six was so powerful that it landed near ICC Chairman Jay Shah, sitting in the stands, 106 meters away.
Looking at Hardik Pandya's aggressive mood, it seemed he was aiming for a six on every ball. In his 28-run innings, he hit three sixes. His value-for-money batting filled the Dubai International Stadium with enthusiasm. Virat Kohli, watching from the Indian dressing room, jumped with joy.
Hardik even smashed a shot towards ICC Chairman Jay Shah, as if congratulating him for India's victory right from the pitch. Another powerful shot landed near head coach Gautam Gambhir, sitting in the dressing room.
Pandya and Rahul Steer India to Victory
India was chasing 265 runs to book a spot in the final. When Virat Kohli was out for 84, India still needed 40 runs off 44 balls. From there, KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya took charge.
With India needing 27 runs off 24 balls, Hardik shifted to top gear. He smashed two sixes off Adam Zampa to bring India closer to victory. The entire stadium of dubai erupted with the every shot, while Virat's reaction in the dressing room went viral on the social media.
However, Pandya could not finish the match in last and was dismissed in 28 runs off 24 balls while the attempting another six then KL Rahul sealed the win with a six, taking India to the Champions Trophy 2025 final.
Australia’s Struggles and India’s Chase
Batting first, Australia was bowled out for 264 runs in 49.3 overs. Steve Smith was the top scorer with 73 runs in 96 balls, while Travis Head contributed 39 quick runs.
For India, apart from Kohli’s brilliant 98-ball 84, Shreyas Iyer scored 45 runs, while KL Rahul (42) and Hardik Pandya (28)* played crucial roles in the chase.
India Awaits Final Opponent
Now, India will face the winner of the second semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand in the final on March 9.
