DUBAI: The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 final will take place in Dubai on March 9, following India’s victory over Australia in the semi-final on Tuesday.
Due to Men in Blue’s qualification, the highly-anticipated Champions Trophy 2025 final will be played in Dubai despite Pakistan being the host.
It is pertinent to note that the International Cricket Council (ICC) had announced that the venue for the final is subject to India’s qualification.
Consequently, the full implications of India’s refusal to play Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan were laid bare on Sunday as Australia and South Africa waited to find out whether they will play their semi-finals in Lahore or Dubai this week.
Political tensions between the neighbours mean India has not played a cricket match in Pakistan since 2008, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was not inclined to change the policy for the Champions Trophy, citing government advice over security issues.
Earlier, India’s team reached their third consecutive final of the marquee event, defeating Australia convincingly with four wickets.
The Men in Blue successfully chased a challenging target of 265 on a fresh Dubai pitch in 48.1 overs on losing six wickets.
In pursuit of the target, India lost both openers inside the power play. Rohit Sharma (28) and Shubman Gill (8) were dismissed quickly, thanks to some good bowling from Australia.
After the early hiccup, Indian stalwart Virat Kohli and Sheryas Iyer added a 91-run stand to steady the chase. Iyer departed after making a well-made 45 off 62 deliveries, featuring three fours.
But Kohli remained steadfast in the chase, forming vital partnerships with Axar Patel and KL Rahul.
He was the standout performer, scoring a flawless 84 off 98, laced with four boundaries, before being dismissed in the 42nd over.
Following his dismissal, Hardik Pandya took control of the chase and struck a quick-fire 28, bringing India close to the victory. He struck three huge sixes in his 28 off 24 balls.
With only 4 required off 12 balls, Rahul, who remained unbeaten on 42, hit the winning runs with a six over midwicket and steered India to a memorable victory.
For Australia, Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa were the pick of the bowlers, each claiming two wickets.
India veteran batter Virat Kohli was named the Player of the Match for his outstanding batting performance.
Read: India storm into Champions Trophy final with thrilling win over Australia
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