Defining moments that shaped Men in Blue’s win in Champions Trophy clash – Firstpost

India sealed a thrilling
four-wicket victory over Australia in the first semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, successfully chasing down a target of 265 at the iconic Dubai venue. Virat Kohli played a brilliant knock to help India emerge victorious and was named the Player of the Match.

Champions Trophy 2025: 
News | 
Schedule | 
Results | 
Points Table

India have reached the final of the Champions Trophy for the third consecutive time. This is also India’s third ICC final in a row in the past two years.

Turning points from IND vs AUS match

The match saw several key turning points that ultimately decided the fate of the game. Here’s a look at the defining moments:

Shami’s double strike puts India on top

Mohammed Shami once again proved his worth in a knockout game. He first removed Cooper Connolly cheaply and then dismissed Australia’s captain Steven Smith for a well-made 73 just as he was looking to accelerate.

Shami x Smith

pic.twitter.com/huSeRjPPcD

— Manoj Tiwari (@ManojTiwariIND) March 5, 2025

Jadeja’s impact in the middle overs

Ravindra Jadeja turned the game in India’s favour with two key wickets in the middle overs. He trapped Marnus Labuschagne lbw for 29 and later got Josh Inglis caught at mid-wicket, restricting Australia’s ability to build partnerships.

Alex Carey’s counterattack and run-out

Alex Carey provided Australia with a late flourish, scoring 61 off 57 balls. His counterattacking approach momentarily put the pressure back on India. However, a brilliant direct hit from Shreyas Iyer ran him out at a crucial juncture.

Brilliant throw to get Carey out💥..
Saved atleast 15 to 20 runs from scoring🫡
Iyer – Underrated Beast in fielding🥵#INDvsAUS #ChampionsTrophy2025 https://t.co/nz7S9Jrk2M pic.twitter.com/M2NAtK5oPk

— 𝐇𝐞𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐠 (@Heisenberg738) March 4, 2025

Virat Kohli’s composed knock

Chasing 265 in a high-stakes semi-final, India needed an anchor, and Virat Kohli delivered yet again. His 84 off 98 balls stabilised the innings after the early losses of Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma.

Zampa’s double strike creates tension

Adam Zampa brought Australia back into the game, dismissing Shreyas Iyer for 45 and later getting Kohli caught at deep square leg. His breakthroughs threatened to derail India’s chase, adding drama to the closing stages.

🚨Winning moment for team india,
KL Rahul finished with a six .#ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/iXCyWV9mVY

— The Bharat Matter (@TheBharatMatter) March 5, 2025

KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya’s finishing act

Despite losing Kohli at a crucial point, KL Rahul played a composed unbeaten knock of 42 off 34 balls, displaying remarkable control under pressure. Hardik Pandya’s quick-fire 28 off 24 balls, featuring three sixes, ensured that India crossed the finish line with ease.