The stage is set for a thrilling semi-final clash between India and Australia in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at the Dubai International Stadium. Scheduled to start at 2:30 PM IST, this high-stakes encounter promises to be a cricketing spectacle. Rohit Sharma leads an unbeaten Indian side, while Steve Smith captains the Australian team. Both teams are vying for a spot in the final on March 9, making this a must-win match.
India’s Dominance and Australia’s Resilience
India has been in stellar form throughout the tournament, winning all three group-stage matches, including a convincing victory over New Zealand. However, India’s knockout-stage struggles against Australia loom large. Their last win against Australia in an ICC knockout match came in the 2011 World Cup quarterfinal. Since then, India has faced heartbreaks in the 2015 ODI World Cup semi-final, the 2023 ODI World Cup final, and the 2023 World Test Championship final.
Australia, on the other hand, is looking to recreate the magic of their 2023 World Cup final win against India. Despite the absence of key players like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, the Aussies remain a formidable force. Their recent chase of 352 against England in Lahore is a testament to their resilience.
Key Players and Strategies
India’s optimism lies in their strong spin attack. The decision to include five spinners in the squad, initially criticized, has proven effective on Dubai’s slow pitches. The spin quartet of Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel delivered a stunning performance against New Zealand, taking nine wickets and bowling 128 dot balls in 39 overs.
Australia, however, relies heavily on Adam Zampa as their primary spinner, with part-timers Glenn Maxwell and Travis Head providing support. The absence of key bowlers has been felt, especially after Matthew Short’s injury ruled him out of the tournament. Australia may turn to 21-year-old Cooper Connolly or Jake Fraser-McGurk as replacements.
India’s Batting Firepower
India’s batting lineup, featuring Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and Shreyas Iyer, is in top form. Rohit’s explosive starts have allowed Gill and Kohli to settle in, while the middle order has shown resilience under pressure. The Indian batters are eager to capitalize on the familiar conditions in Dubai.
Australia’s Chase Mastery
Australia’s ability to chase big totals, as seen in their recent match against England, makes them a dangerous opponent. Steve Smith and Travis Head will be key to their batting success, while Glenn Maxwell’s all-round abilities could prove crucial.
Live Streaming and Broadcast Details
Cricket fans worldwide can catch the live action of the India vs Australia semi-final on multiple platforms. In India, the match will be broadcast live on Star Sports Network, including Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, and Star Sports Select. For live streaming, fans can tune into Disney+ Hotstar, which will provide high-quality streaming with options for Hindi and English commentary.
In Australia, the match will be telecast on Fox Sports and streamed live on Kayo Sports. For viewers in the UK, Sky Sports Cricket will broadcast the game, while Willow TV will cover the match for audiences in the USA and Canada.
Match Prediction and Fantasy Tips
India’s strong spin attack and batting depth give them an edge, but Australia’s chase mastery and experience in high-pressure games cannot be underestimated. Fantasy cricket players should focus on key performers like Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Adam Zampa, and Glenn Maxwell.
