Virat Kohli led from the front as India secured a four-wicket victory over Australia to book their place in the final of the Champions Trophy.
Chasing 265, India reached the target in 48.1 overs, thanks to Kohli’s composed 84 off 98 balls and a steady finish from wicketkeeper KL Rahul.
India’s chase began with early setbacks as Shubman Gill (8) and Rohit Sharma (28) departed within eight overs. Kohli then anchored the innings, stitching a crucial 91-run partnership with Shreyas Iyer (45), AFP reported.
Adam Zampa broke the stand, dismissing Iyer and later removing Kohli in the 43rd over, leaving India at 225/5.
Despite Kohli’s fall, KL Rahul (42*) and Hardik Pandya (28) ensured India crossed the finish line with 11 balls to spare.
KL Rahul’s attacking stroke play, including two sixes, eased the pressure in the final overs.
Earlier, Australia skipper Steve Smith and Alex Carey hit half-centuries as Australia made 264 all out.
After choosing to bat, Smith hit 73 and the left-handed Carey smashed 61 to put on the highest total at Dubai International Cricket Stadium in the ongoing 50-over tournament.
India pace spearhead Mohammed Shami stood out with figures of 3-48 as Australia's innings lasted 49.3 overs. Spinners Varun Chakravarthy and Ravindra Jadeja took two wickets each.
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