Team India have done the unthinkable. They have finally broken the curse and defeated Australia in the semi-final of the 2025 Champions Trophy and they are now through to the final. They will now face the winner of the second semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand that will be played tomorrow at the Gaddafi Stadium.
For the longest time, the Indian fans and players alike looked concerned about this match, especially because of the type of record they have had against the Australians in the recent past. The Aussies beat India on their home turf in the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup and that gave the Blues a deep scar that would be remembered for a long time. Although the Aussies came in this tournament without a lot of their veteran players, beating Australia has always been a tough task for India, especially recently.
Thus, when KL Rahul hit the massive six to finish the match off in style, it was a moment to rejoice and perhaps a turning point in Indian cricket. As many have rightfully said, ‘Revenge has been taken’ and the two teams will now restart their rivalry with a clean slate. Rahut hit a six against Glen Maxwell on the first delivery of the 49th over to end the match on a high note. He had also ended India’s first innings against Australia in the 2023 cricket world cup in the same way by hitting a six.
Team India won the match courtesy of a number of brilliant performances in the second innings. Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya all played pivotal roles in winning the match for India and they are not through to the final. It will now be interesting to see whether they will face New Zealand in the final, who they already beat in their last group stage match, or will it be South Africa who they also faced recently in the 2024 T20 World Cup final.
