Champions Trophy: India In Final, Aussies Eliminated, Kohli Is Masterful

DUBAI (ANI) – Virat Kohli once again showcased his brilliance under pressure, delivering a composed 84 off 98 balls to steer India to a four-wicket victory over Australia in the Champions Trophy semi-final. His calculated innings, marked by precise strike rotation, played a pivotal role in India’s chase of 265, securing a spot in the final and offering redemption after their 2023 ODI World Cup heartbreak.

Despite missing out on his 52nd ODI century, Kohli emphasized that personal milestones no longer matter to him. “I have never focused on those things. If I get to the three-figure mark, great, but the win is important. I take pride in doing what my team needs,” he said in the post-match presentation.

Kohli highlighted his ability to assess conditions and rotate the strike as the most satisfying aspects of his innings. “My timing, my composure—I was not rushed. The singles I took were the most pleasing part. When a batsman takes pride in finding gaps for singles, that’s when you know you’re playing good cricket,” he said.

Reflecting on his dismissal, he admitted his intent was to take India closer to victory himself. “The plan was to get 20 more runs and finish the game, but sometimes you can’t execute exactly what you want.”

Match Recap

After winning the toss, Australia opted to bat first. Despite losing Cooper Connolly early, Travis Head (39 off 33) built a solid stand with Steve Smith (73). Smith later stitched half-century partnerships with Marnus Labuschagne (29) and Alex Carey (61), who remained until the 48th over before a direct hit from Shreyas Iyer ended his knock. Australia was eventually bowled out for 264 in 49.3 overs.

Mohammed Shami (3/48) led India’s disciplined bowling attack, while Varun Chakravarthy (2/49) and Ravindra Jadeja (2/40) applied pressure with spin. Axar Patel and Hardik Pandya chipped in with a wicket each.

India’s chase got off to a shaky start, with Rohit Sharma (28) and Shubman Gill (8) departing early at 43/2. Kohli and Shreyas Iyer (45) then stabilized the innings with a crucial 91-run stand. Kohli further built partnerships with Axar Patel (27) and KL Rahul (42*), ensuring India remained on track.

Hardik Pandya’s fiery 28 off 24, including three sixes, provided the final push as India reached 267/6 in 48.1 overs.

For Australia, Nathan Ellis (2/48) and Adam Zampa (2/60) were the standout bowlers, but Kohli’s masterful chase proved too much to contain.

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