India's Sweet Revenge: Dominant Win Over Australia Seal Champions Trophy Final Spot

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India secured a place in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final with a tense victory over Australia, thanks to a composed late partnership between Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul. Chasing 265 for victory, India reached 267/6 in 48.1 overs, overcoming some early setbacks.

With India at 225/5 in the 43rd over, the match was finely poised. Rahul and Pandya kept their composure, ensuring the chase stayed on track.

Pandya contributed a quick 28 off 24 balls before falling in the penultimate over, while Rahul remained unbeaten on 42 from 34 deliveries. His six to finish the game sealed India's win, with Ravindra Jadeja chipping in with two runs off the only ball he faced.

Earlier, Australia posted 264, the highest total in Dubai during the tournament, but fell short of capitalizing on a solid foundation. Steve Smith anchored the innings with 73 off 96 balls, while Alex Carey's 61 off 57 added crucial late runs. Travis Head got off to an aggressive start, scoring 39 off 33, but India's bowlers struck at key moments. Mohammed Shami dismissed Smith, while Axar Patel removed Glenn Maxwell (7), shifting the momentum towards India. The last four Australian wickets fell within the final five overs, adding just 29 runs.

India's chase started shakily, with Shubman Gill (8) falling to Ben Dwarshuis, followed by Rohit Sharma (28), trapped lbw by Cooper Connolly. Shreyas Iyer and Virat Kohli steadied the innings with a 91-run partnership before Iyer (45) was bowled by Adam Zampa. Axar Patel (27) contributed briefly but was cleaned up by Nathan Ellis, leaving India needing a composed effort from the lower middle order.

Rahul's controlled knock, coupled with Pandya's aggressive stroke play, ensured India got over the line with 11 balls to spare. Their latest triumph sets up a thrilling final as India seeks its first Champions Trophy title since 2013.