The Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final between India and Australia has already produced some intense and amusing moments, and one of the highlights came when Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja humorously held onto Marnus Labuschagne, momentarily preventing him from taking a run.
The incident occurred during the 20.2 over of Australia’s innings when Jadeja bowled to Steven Smith. The Australian batter punched the ball towards Labuschagne, but Jadeja instinctively stuck out his right foot. The ball ricocheted off Labuschagne’s bat and rolled towards mid-wicket. However, as Labuschagne tried to set off for a run, Jadeja humorously held onto him for a moment, creating a comical scene.
Steven Smith, at the non-striker’s end, was visibly displeased and made his feelings clear about the playful interference. However, the moment ended on a lighter note, as Labuschagne and Jadeja shared a friendly hug after the brief exchange.
At the time of the incident, Australia was 105/2 after 21 overs, with Smith batting at 36 and Labuschagne at 24. The duo had put together a steady 51-run partnership after the dismissal of Travis Head, who was caught by Shubman Gill off Varun Chakravarthy’s bowling for 39 runs.
The match has been a high-stakes encounter, with India looking to continue their unbeaten run in the tournament, while Australia is determined to avenge their group-stage loss to the Men in Blue.
Key Moments So Far
- Mohammed Shami Strikes Early: Shami dismissed Cooper Connolly for a nine-ball duck, setting the tone for India’s bowling attack.
- Travis Head’s Aggressive Start: Head smashed five fours and two sixes before falling to Chakravarthy.
- Jadeja’s Playful Banter: The all-rounder’s antics added a light moment to an otherwise intense battle.
As the match progresses, all eyes will be on how India’s spinners, led by Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav, counter Australia’s middle order and whether Smith and Labuschagne can anchor the innings for their side.
