India and Australia face off today (March 4) in the first semifinal of the Champions Trophy, pitting the tournament favorites against the reigning 50-over world champions. 

The match is set to begin at 3:00 pm (Bangladesh time) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, UAE.

This encounter is a rematch of the 2023 Cricket World Cup final, where Australia stunned hosts India in Ahmedabad. 

Despite controversy over India playing all their matches in Dubai due to political tensions with Pakistan, captain Rohit Sharma dismissed claims of an unfair advantage, emphasizing that each pitch has behaved differently.

“There are multiple surfaces in play, and each has its own characteristics,” Rohit said adding, “We don’t know which one will be used in the semifinal, but we must adapt.”

India remain unbeaten in the tournament, but Rohit anticipates a tough challenge from Australia, who edged them in their last meeting. 

“Australia have always been a strong side. We expect fightbacks and pressure moments, especially in a semifinal,” he added.

Meanwhile, Australia’s key leg-spinner Adam Zampa admitted he hasn’t been at his best but remains confident. “Even when I’m not feeling great, I can still take big wickets,” Zampa said. He played a crucial role in Australia’s journey, taking vital wickets in matches against Afghanistan and England.

Australia arrived in Dubai from Lahore on Saturday, avoiding an extra trip back to Pakistan after India’s win over New Zealand secured their semifinal spot. However, South Africa will have to travel back for their clash against New Zealand in Lahore on Wednesday.

India, two-time Champions Trophy winners, are considering fielding the same spin-heavy attack that saw Varun Chakravarthy claim 5-42 in their last match. “It’s a good selection dilemma,” Rohit admitted.

Both teams have suffered injuries—India lost Jasprit Bumrah, while Australia replaced Matt Short with all-rounder Cooper Connolly.

BDST: 0922 HRS, MAR 04, 2025
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