Axar Patel struck a decisive blow in the Champions Trophy semi-final, dismissing Glenn Maxwell for just seven runs as India continued to apply pressure on Australia. The left-arm spinner delivered a skidding delivery that stayed low and crashed into the middle and leg stumps, leaving Maxwell stunned by his misjudgment.
Maxwell gone early:
Maxwell, known for his explosive strokeplay, attempted to play across the line but was beaten by the pace and trajectory of the ball. Stepping back to create room, he found himself through the shot too early, with the ball rattling his stumps before he could adjust. His quick-fire knock included a towering six, but his dismissal left Australia struggling at 205/6 in 37.4 overs.
India take control as wickets tumble
Just an over before Maxwell’s wicket Indian pacer Mohammed Shami dismissed captain Steve Smith in a similar fashion. These two wickets in quick succession can prove to be an obstacle for the Australian side if they fail to reach a giant total in the first semi-final. WIth 6 wickets down, the responsibility now falls on Alex Carry who is batting in 30s and Ben Dwarhuis to post a decent total to defend in the second innings.
Current scorecard:
AUS: 207/6(39 overs)
