Team India, led by Rohit Sharma, has been in outstanding form in ICC Champions Trophy 2025, winning all three of its group-stage matches. The team now faces a tough challenge against Australia in the semi-finals at the Dubai Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
Despite missing several key players, Australia has remained a strong contender throughout the tournament.
Both teams have a reputation for delivering their best performances in the knockout stages of ICC tournaments. However, India holds the advantage, backed by an incredible record – remaining unbeaten in Champions Trophy semi-finals for the past 27 years.
Over the years, under the leadership of Sourav Ganguly, MS Dhoni, and Virat Kohli, India has consistently overcome this stage. Fans are hopeful that the team will continue this legacy and secure a spot in the final once again.
India’s Champions Trophy Glory: Two-Time ICC Champions
Team India has won ICC Champions Trophy twice since its inception in 1998. Originally known as the ‘ICC Knockout,’ the tournament saw India reach the final in 2000, but they fell short in a hard-fought match against New Zealand.
India secured its first Champions Trophy title in 2002, but in an unusual fashion, as the final against Sri Lanka was washed out, resulting in both teams being declared joint winners.
A historic triumph under MS Dhoni
In 2013, India claimed the trophy again, this time under the leadership of MS Dhoni. The team defeated hosts England in a thrilling final, cementing its dominance in ICC tournaments. This edition was also a turning point for Rohit Sharma, as Dhoni entrusted him with the opening role – a decision that transformed his career and earned him the title of ‘Hitman.’
India Drops Big Star, Makes Bold Selection Call for Semi-Final
India made a bold decision to retain Varun Chakravarthy in the playing XI for the semi-final against Australia, leaving out pacer Harshit Rana.
India Playing XI: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy.
