Australia's Champions Trophy campaign ended with a four-wicket semi-final loss to India in Dubai. Captain Steve Smith dismissed claims that India's exclusive play in Dubai provided an unfair advantage, acknowledging that the pitch favored India's spinners but crediting their overall performance. Smith top-scored with 73 runs, contributing to Australia's total of 264. However, India's chase, led by Virat Kohli's 84, was successful. Smith noted Australia's missed chances in the field and the impact of their inexperienced bowling attack, which struggled in the absence of key players like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood. Despite the loss, Smith highlighted the valuable experience gained by the emerging players, expressing optimism for the team's future.

In a thrilling semifinal at Dubai International Stadium, India defeated Australia by four wickets to secure their spot in the 2025 Champions Trophy final. Chasing a target of 265, India showcased resilience, with Virat Kohli's masterful 84 runs guiding the team. The victory sparked jubilant celebrations among thousands of Indian fans, who filled the stadium with renditions of "Vande Mataram," creating a euphoric atmosphere. The team's unbeaten run in the tournament sets high expectations for the final on March 9, where they aim to clinch their first 50-over title since 2013. 

  India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, strongly defended captain Rohit Sharma against his critics, emphasizing that Rohit’s contributions go beyond mere statistics. Responding to doubts over the skipper’s form and leadership, Gambhir stated that while critics focus on numbers, those within the team recognize Rohit’s match-winning impact. He highlighted Sharma’s crucial role in shaping India’s recent successes, urging fans and experts to appreciate his leadership qualities and ability to deliver in pressure situations. Gambhir’s comments come amid scrutiny over Rohit’s performance, reinforcing his trust in the captain’s ability to guide Team India forward.

India stormed into the Champions Trophy 2025 final after defeating Australia by 4 wickets in Dubai. Chasing 265, chess master Virat Kohli anchored the innings with a brilliant 84, guiding India to a record chase in an ICC knockout match. Despite early setbacks, Kohli and Shreyas Iyer (45) steadied the innings before KL Rahul sealed the victory with a six. Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja shone with the ball, restricting Australia to 264. This marks India's third consecutive ICC white-ball final after the 2023 ODI World Cup and 2024 T20 World Cup. The Men in Blue now aim for their second Champions Trophy title.

India secured a spot in the Champions Trophy final, but KL Rahul was visibly disappointed when Virat Kohli threw his wicket away for 84. Rahul, who was set to finish the chase, told Kohli, “Main maar raha tha na,” expressing his frustration. Despite Kohli’s dismissal, Rahul remained unbeaten on 42, sealing the victory with a six. Kohli’s masterful knock, supported by Shreyas Iyer (45) and Axar Patel (27), helped India break their knockout jinx against Australia in ICC events. Rahul and Hardik Pandya (28) ensured India’s chase was completed smoothly.

Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar strongly defended India captain Rohit Sharma after Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed called him “fat for a sportsman” and “the most unimpressive captain.” Mohamed deleted the post after backlash. Gavaskar dismissed the criticism, saying, “If you want only slim guys, then go to a modelling competition.” He emphasized that mental strength matters more than physique in cricket. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya also slammed the remarks, calling them “shameful” and urging politicians to avoid body-shaming athletes. The controversy has sparked widespread debate among cricket fans and political leaders.

India’s cricket legend Kapil Dev hailed Virat Kohli as the ultimate ODI run-chase specialist after India knocked Australia out of the Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai. Kohli’s composed 84 anchored India’s victory, reaffirming his dominance under pressure. "He has the temperament, talent, and class. Dhoni used to do it, but Kohli is a step ahead," Kapil Dev told India Today. The former captain highlighted Kohli’s unmatched ability to handle chases. India's win propels them to the semi-finals, further solidifying Kohli's reputation as the greatest among greats in run chases.

Virat Kohli scored 84 runs in India's successful 265-run chase against Australia in the Champions Trophy semi-final in Dubai. Despite missing a hundred by 16 runs, Kohli emphasized that team victories matter more than personal milestones. "If I get to the three-figure mark, great, but the win is important," he said. Kohli’s knock helped India knock out the reigning world champions. He also surpassed 8,000 runs in ODI run chases. India now advances to the final, aiming for another ICC title.

Virat Kohli's 84 off 98 balls powered India to a 4-wicket victory over Australia in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final in Dubai. Kohli became the fastest batter to surpass 8,000 ODI chase runs, breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record. Shreyas Iyer (45) and KL Rahul (42*) provided crucial support as India chased 265 with 11 balls to spare. Kohli also awarded player of the match for his crucial innings. ĤHardik Pandya’s 28-run cameo added late momentum. Mohammed Shami (3/42) led India’s bowling attack. India reached its third consecutive Champions Trophy final and will face either New Zealand or South Africa.

India secured a place in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final after defeating Australia by 4 wickets in Dubai. Chasing 265, India reached the target in 48.1 overs, with KL Rahul (42*) sealing the win with a six off Glenn Maxwell. Shreyas Iyer (76) and Virat Kohli (58) anchored the chase, while Hardik Pandya (28) provided late fireworks. Australia’s Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa tried to turn the game, but India remained unbeaten in the tournament. Steve Smith's team is eliminated as India awaits its final opponent.