Australia's Travis Head walks off the field after losing his wicket during the ICC Champions Trophy semifinal cricket match between India and Australia at Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai. AP Photo/Christopher Pike Australia's Travis Head walks off the field after losing his wicket during the ICC Champions Trophy semifinal cricket match between India and Australia at Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai. AP Photo/Christopher Pike

Dubai witnessed high-voltage cricket action on Tuesday, March 4kebet, as India lock horns with Australia in the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. (Match Blog | Full Coverage)

1889bra

One of the most anticipated battles of the match unfolded when India's mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy was introduced into the attack and he wasted no time making an impact.

Australian opener Travis Head, known for his heroics against India in ICC events, was once again looking dangerous at the crease. He provided his team with a solid start, scoring a quickfire 39 off 33 balls, including five boundaries and two massive sixes. However, just as he started to accelerate, India captain Rohit Sharma turned to his trump card, Varun Chakravarthy, in the ninth over.

The move paid off instantly. On just the second ball of his spell, Chakravarthy lured Head into an attacking shot. The left-hander attempted to clear the long-off boundary but mistimed his shot,7jogos sending the ball straight into the hands of Shubman Gill. The dismissal sent a wave of relief through the Indian camp, as they had managed to break a crucial partnership early in the innings.

India's HEADACHE is gone! #VarunChakaravarthy weaves his magic on the field and brings a crucial breakthrough! 📺📱 Start watching FREE on JioHotstar : https://t.co/B3oHCeWFge#ChampionsTrophyOnJioStar 👉 #INDvAUS | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports… pic.twitter.com/4bvzc5yE9x

Nevertheless, a brace from Kyogo Furuhashi and Paulo Bernardo's sumptuous strike virtually ended the contest at half-time.

But a fine second-half display from McNeil saw two excellent finishes carry Everton over the line.

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) March 4, 2025

Chakravarthy’s breakthrough was a major talking point on social media, with fans and experts applauding his ability to deliver on the big stage. Having already impressed with a five-wicket haul against New Zealand in the group stage, the spinner once again proved his worth in a high-pressure knockout game. Many Indian fans hailed him as a “game-changer,” recognizing his vital contribution to the team’s success.

Following Head’s dismissal, India continued to push for dominance. Ravindra Jadeja added to Australia’s woes by picking up the wickets of Marnus Labuschagne and Josh Inglis in quick succession. However, experienced campaigner Steve Smith stood firm at the other endkebet, notching up a crucial half-century to steer Australia towards a respectable total.