India defeated New Zealand convincingly by 44 runs in their last Group Stage encounter of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, India is now faced with a daunting selection decision before their high-pressure semifinal match against Australia on Tuesday. Captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir will have to make a choice whether to retain the winning combination from the New Zealand game or go back to the Playing XI that had earlier beaten Bangladesh and Pakistan.
Varun Chakravarthy’s Performance Against New Zealand
Varun Chakravarthy’s stunning 5/42 against New Zealand completely flipped the game against New Zealand. His spell of a lifetime contributed to India dismissing the Black Caps for 205 while defending a score of 249. His presence has given Rohit Sharma a strategic dilemma in choosing the playing XI against Australia.
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Ravi Shastri Gives Solution To Defeat Australia
For Team India the bitter memories of ODI World Cup 2023 is still fresh. India’s struggle against Australia in ICC knockout matches are well chronicled.
With that in view, Ravi Shastri has recommended that India continue with the same XI that beat New Zealand and, if they are allowed to bat first, try to post a fighting total before allowing their spinners to dominate on a turning Dubai wicket.
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As India gears up for the important clash, the team is aware that a good show can potentially end their ICC knockout jinx against Australia—and keep their Champions Trophy title hopes alive.
“So if you bat first, put anything over 240-250, it’s going to be very competitive in a big game like a semi-final,” said Ravi Shastri at the end of the match.
