India Triumphs Over Australia to Reach Champions Trophy Final

Champions Trophy Semi-Final, Dubai

• Australia: 264 all out (49.3 overs) – Smith 73, Carey 61; Shami 3-48
• India: 267-6 (48.1 overs) – Kohli 84; Ellis 2-49, Zampa 2-60
• India won by 4 wickets

India Secures Final Spot with Victory Over Australia

India booked their place in the Champions Trophy final with a composed four-wicket win over Australia in Dubai. Chasing 265, Virat Kohli anchored the innings with a crucial 84, overcoming early setbacks after the dismissals of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill within the first eight overs.

Kohli, known for his masterful chases, looked set to guide India home before falling to Adam Zampa with 40 runs still required from 45 balls. Australia attempted to tighten their grip, but Hardik Pandya’s two massive sixes in his 24-ball 28 eased the pressure. His dismissal left India needing just six runs, which KL Rahul sealed with a towering six, securing victory with 11 balls to spare.

Earlier, India’s disciplined bowling effort restricted Australia to 264 in 49.3 overs. Steve Smith led Australia’s charge with 73, but his dismissal—alongside Glenn Maxwell—triggered a collapse from 198-4 in the 38th over. Mohammed Shami was the standout bowler with 3-48, ensuring India had a manageable target.

With this victory, India advances to the final on Sunday, which will now be held in Dubai instead of Lahore, following their decision not to travel to hosts Pakistan. They will face either New Zealand or South Africa, who battle it out in the second semi-final on Wednesday in Lahore.