Virat Kohli showcased his brilliance once again, orchestrating a disciplined chase to secure India a four-wicket victory over Australia in the Champions Trophy semi-finals at Dubai International Stadium on Tuesday. With a keen sense of the game, Kohli navigated the pitch with precision, stealing runs and forging vital partnerships that ultimately knocked Australia out of the tournament.
Despite facing a less formidable Australian bowling attack than in the 2023 World Cup final, Kohli’s performance was nothing short of masterful. His controlled aggression resembled a boxer delivering calculated jabs, each run a testament to his focus and skill. When India chases, Kohli transforms into an unstoppable force, and this match was no exception.
“The pitch was pretty similar to the other day against Pakistan,” Kohli explained after being awarded Player of the Match. “It’s about understanding the conditions and rotating the strike because partnerships on this pitch are important.” He emphasized the need for composure, stating, “The singles that I took were the most pleasing part for me.”
Kohli’s ability to manage pressure was evident throughout the innings. “This game is all about pressure. If you go deep into the game, the opposition usually gives in,” he said. Even with a required run rate of six an over, he remained unfazed, focusing on building his innings methodically.
Though he ultimately fell for 84 runs—missing out on his 52nd century—Kohli’s innings was a masterclass in pacing and shot selection. He held back on aerial shots until he confidently dispatched Adam Zampa’s googly for his first six over midwicket.
Shami and Chakravarthy Restrict Australia
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Australia initially looked poised to set a challenging target. Travis Head threatened to take control of the match again, but Varun Chakravarthy struck early, taking a wicket with his second ball and dampening Australia’s momentum.
Steve Smith, however, held the innings together, forming three crucial fifty-run partnerships with Head, Marnus Labuschagne, and Alex Carey. Mohammed Shami, who had earlier let slip two caught-and-bowled chances, finally dismissed Smith with a well-placed full toss.
Smith’s departure, along with Glenn Maxwell’s exit and Carey’s unfortunate run-out, left Australia struggling. Ultimately, they were bowled out for 264—at least 30 runs short of a competitive total.
As India advances to the final, Kohli’s performance, coupled with a solid bowling effort from Shami and Chakravarthy, has set the stage for an exciting climax to the tournament.
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