India and Australia are set to face off in the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on March 4 in Dubai, reviving a fierce rivalry that saw its last major showdown in the 2023 ODI World Cup final in Ahmedabad. That night, Australia shattered India’s unbeaten run, claiming their sixth World Cup title with a dominant performance led by Travis Head’s unforgettable century.
India’s dream run ended in heartbreak
India entered the 2023 final with 10 straight wins, appearing unstoppable. Australia, despite two group-stage losses, peaked at the right time, beating South Africa in a tense semi-final, while India triumphed over New Zealand.
Australian skipper Pat Cummins won the toss and bowled first, putting India under pressure. Rohit Sharma’s fiery start (47 off 31) gave hope, but once he fell, the innings lost momentum. Virat Kohli (54) and KL Rahul (66) struggled to accelerate, as Mitchell Starc (3/55) and Josh Hazlewood (2/60) restricted India to 240 all out.
Travis Head’s heroics sealed Australia’s title
India started brilliantly with the ball, reducing Australia to 47/3, sparking belief in a comeback. However, Travis Head played the innings of his life, smashing 137 off 120 balls, anchoring the chase alongside Marnus Labuschagne (58 off 110). Australia comfortably reached the target with seven overs to spare, crushing Indian fans’ hopes.
Now, as India and Australia gear up for their Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final in Dubai, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With memories of 2023 still fresh, India will look for redemption, while Australia aims to repeat history.
