Dubai: India has avenged its 2023 double final losses to Australia by defeating them in Dubai, thanks to a combined effort from the bowlers and a stellar batting performance under Virat Kohli’s leadership. With this victory, India has broken its streak of knockout stage defeats to Australia, the last win being in the 2011 ODI World Cup quarterfinals. This triumph also serves as sweet revenge for the losses in the 2023 ODI World Cup (Motera, Ahmedabad) and the World Test Championship final (Lord’s).
Rohit Sharma has become the first Indian captain to lead his team to four ICC tournament finals. After competing in the 2023 ICC World Test Championship and ODI World Cup finals, and the 2024 T20 World Cup final, his team is now set for a fourth final appearance. On Sunday, India will face either New Zealand or South Africa in the title clash.
Chasing a target of 265 runs at the Maktoum Stadium in Dubai was anticipated to be challenging for India. Rohit Sharma began the innings in his characteristic aggressive style, hitting boundaries and sixes, but couldn’t stay long, scoring 28 runs off 29 balls. Earlier, Gill was bowled by Starc. At this juncture, Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer forged a crucial 91-run partnership for the third wicket, stabilizing India’s innings. Iyer fell just 5 runs short of a consecutive half-century, bowled by Adam Zampa. However, Kohli remained at the crease until the 43rd over, guiding the chase.
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