Ravindra Jadeja delivered a crucial blow to Australia’s innings in the Champions Trophy semi-final, trapping Marnus Labuschagne lbw for 29. The Australian batter was caught on the crease, and the umpire wasted no time raising his finger. Labuschagne, aware of his fate, chose not to review, walking back as Australia found themselves at 110/3 in 22.3 overs.
The dismissal came at a vital juncture for India, with Labuschagne looking settled at the crease and building a partnership with skipper Steve Smith. Facing Jadeja’s trademark accuracy, he misjudged the length and was struck in front of the stumps, leaving Australia three down in their bid to post a strong total at the Dubai International Stadium. However, in replay the ball tracking displayed two reds and umpire’s call in wickets hitting.
Inglis joins Smith as India tighten grip
With Labuschagne departing, wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis walked in to join Steve Smith, who remains Australia’s key hope in the middle overs. India, buoyed by the wicket, will look to build on this momentum as they aim to restrict Australia from accelerating in the latter half of the innings.
Jadeja’s breakthrough has reinforced India’s control, with spin playing a decisive role on a pitch offering assistance. As the contest heats up, Australia will need a solid partnership to keep their innings on track, while India will push for further inroads in their pursuit of a place in the final.
Current scorecard:
AUS: 120/3 (24 overs)
Steven Smith 42 (61b)
Josh Inglis 4 (5b)
Varun Chakravarthy 4-0-18-1
Ravindra Jadeja 5-1-18-1
