India and Australia are battling it out in the first semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at the Dubai International Stadium. After winning the toss, Australian skipper Steve Smith opted to bat first, citing the dryness of the surface as a factor that could aid their spinners later. However, Indian fans erupted in celebration in the ninth over when Varun Chakravarthy dismissed the dangerous Travis Head, providing India with a crucial breakthrough.
Chakravarthy, who has been India’s trump card throughout the tournament, struck at a key moment yet again. The mystery spinner deceived Head with his variation, sending him back for a well-made 39. This was Chakravarthy’s sixth wicket of the tournament, solidifying his role as a match-winner for India.
However, the dismissal wasn’t without controversy. Shubman Gill, who took the catch at long-off, was warned by the on-field umpires for throwing the ball in celebration before completing the catch process. The MCC laws state that a catch is only complete when the fielder has full control over both the ball and their movement. Fortunately for India, the decision stood, and Head had to make the long walk back.
India’s HEADACHE is gone! #VarunChakaravarthy weaves his magic on the field and brings a crucial breakthrough!
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At the toss, Steve Smith expressed confidence in his team’s preparation. “The guys had a session at the academy, and we are ready to go. The pitch looks dry and should take some turn. India is a very good side, and we enjoy playing against them. We’ve made two changes—Cooper Connolly comes in for Matt Short, and Tanveer Sangha replaces Spencer Johnson,” Smith said.
Rohit Sharma, on the other hand, took the toss loss in stride. “I was prepared to do both. The wickets have behaved differently, and when you’re in two minds, it’s better to lose the toss. We’ve played three games here, and each time, the conditions have varied. The slower bowlers have been crucial, which is why we are sticking with the same team,” Rohit explained.
