India will take on Australia in the highly anticipated first semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Having already displayed their dominance with an impeccable group stage run, India will look to overcome their historical knock-out stage struggles against Australia.
Australia, on the other hand, will aim to continue their winning habit against India in ICC semi-finals and finals. With both teams boasting world-class talent and proven match-winners, fans can expect a thrilling contest.
📅 Match Date: March 4, 2025
⏰ Nepali Time: 2:45 PM
🏟 Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
India’s Form
India has been in outstanding form, securing convincing victories over Pakistan and Bangladesh in the group stage. The spin-heavy approach worked wonders, especially on Dubai’s pitches, where Varun Chakaravarthy’s mystery spin was a game-changer. Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli have been instrumental in India’s batting, while Mohammed Shami has led the pace attack effectively.
Australia’s Form
Australia has had a solid campaign, overcoming England and South Africa to reach the semis. Injuries have forced them to make some changes, with Matt Short ruled out. Josh Inglis is likely to open alongside Travis Head, while Cooper Connolly might be preferred over Jake Fraser-McGurk for his all-round abilities. The likes of Glenn Maxwell and Adam Zampa will be key in their middle-overs game plan.
Predicted Playing XI
India:
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- Axar Patel
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Shami
- Varun Chakaravarthy
Australia:
- Travis Head
- Josh Inglis (wk)
- Steven Smith (c)
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Cooper Connolly
- Alex Carey
- Glenn Maxwell
- Ben Dwarshuis
- Nathan Ellis
- Spencer Johnson
- Adam Zampa
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium has provided a balanced playing surface throughout the tournament. While pacers find early movement, spinners dominate the middle overs. Given the dimensions of the ground, stroke-making could be challenging, making patience and tactical play crucial.
🌡 Weather: Clear skies with temperatures around 25°C, ensuring ideal conditions for a full 50-over contest.
📊 Toss Factor: Teams chasing have had a better record at this venue, making the toss a key factor.
Key Players to Watch
✅ Shubman Gill (IND): 147 runs in 2 matches, including a century.
✅ Virat Kohli (IND): 122 runs in 2 matches, returning to form.
✅ Mohammed Shami (IND): 5 wickets in 2 matches, thrives in ICC tournaments.
✅ Steven Smith (AUS): Australia’s experienced campaigner, crucial for stability.
✅ Glenn Maxwell (AUS): Capable of turning the game with bat and ball.
✅ Adam Zampa (AUS): Australia’s main wicket-taking option in the middle overs.
Match Prediction
India has the advantage, having played all their group-stage matches at this venue, while Australia comes in with a different set of challenges. With a well-settled squad and strong form, India is likely to have the upper hand in this semi-final showdown.
🔮 Prediction: India to win
Where to Watch from Nepal
📺 Live on: Star Sports Network, YoSin TV
