India and Australia are set to battle it out in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy semi-final on March 4 at the Dubai International Stadium. This highly anticipated clash brings together two cricketing powerhouses, both eying a spot in the final. With a rich history of intense encounters, this match is expected to deliver another thrilling chapter in their storied rivalry.
The last Champions Trophy meeting: 2009, Centurion
The last time these two teams faced off in a Champions Trophy match was on September 28, 2009, at Centurion, South Africa. In that rain-affected game, Australia posted 234/4 in 42.3 overs, with Michael Hussey (67) and Ricky Ponting (65) leading the charge. Cameron White also contributed a quickfire 35 off 30 balls, while India’s bowlers—led by Ashish Nehra and Amit Mishra. However, the match ended in a no result due to persistent rain, leaving both teams frustrated without a decisive winner.
16 years later: A chance for redemption
Fast forward to 2025, and the stakes are significantly higher. Australia, the reigning 2023 ODI World Cup champions, once again stand in India’s path towards an ICC trophy. India, on the other hand, is eager to avenge its World Cup final loss in Ahmedabad, where Travis Head’s match-winning century crushed their hopes.
Travis Head: India’s biggest hurdle?
One of the biggest threats to India’s title ambitions is Travis Head, who has been a nightmare for Indian bowlers in recent ICC events. Head boasts an impressive record against India, having scored 1,763 runs at an average of 44.07 across formats. His match-winning 137 in the 2023 ODI World Cup final remains a painful memory for Indian fans, and stopping him will be crucial for Rohit Sharma’s men.
