Hardik Pandya showcased his finishing prowess yet again, delivering a blistering cameo of 28 runs in India’s tense semi-final clash against Australia in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. His powerful stroke play, including a monstrous 106-meter six, left the stadium buzzing, with even Virat Kohli and head coach Gautam Gambhir erupting in celebration.
The moment also caught the attention of the crowd, particularly Jasmin Walia, who has been a constant presence in the stands throughout the tournament. Her ecstatic reaction to Hardik’s six further fueled speculation about their rumoured relationship.
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Australia had set a competitive target of 265, and India’s chase was anchored by Virat Kohli’s masterful 84-run knock. Kohli’s dismissal left the game finely poised, with the required runs nearly matching the remaining balls. Hardik then stepped up, bringing his trademark aggression to the crease. His 28-run innings off 24 balls included three sixes and a four, ensuring India crossed the finish line with 11 balls to spare, securing a thrilling four-wicket victory.
HARDIK 𝗖𝗟𝗨𝗧𝗖𝗛 PANDYA! 👊#HardikPandya launches 🚀 one into the park as #TeamIndia inches closer to the target! 👏#ChampionsTrophyOnJioStar 👉 #INDvAUS, LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 2 & Sports18-1!
📺📱 Start Watching FREE on JioHotstar:… pic.twitter.com/hjAIUzy36M
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) March 4, 2025
The defining moment came in the 45th over when Hardik, after facing four consecutive dot balls, unleashed a colossal six that sent the Indian dugout into wild celebrations. His towering hit not only boosted India’s momentum but also sent the fans into a frenzy. Cameras captured Jasmin Walia’s joyous reaction, adding more fuel to the ongoing chatter about her bond with the Indian all-rounder.
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With this win, India sealed their place in the Champions Trophy final, which will now be played in Dubai on March 9 instead of Pakistan. The second semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand will determine India’s opponent in the grand finale.
