Dubai to host Champions Trophy 2025 final as India qualify
- Sara Habib
- March 5, 2025
- 12:28 pm
- 114
- Sports
India has secured a spot in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 final. They will face the winner of the second semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand on March 9. The final will take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
India's Journey to the Final
India qualified after a strong performance against Australia. They won the semi-final by four wickets at the same venue. This victory confirmed that Dubai would host the final, despite Pakistan being the official host.
Why is the Final in Dubai?
The International Cricket Council (ICC) had earlier stated that the final’s venue depended on India’s qualification. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had refused to send the team to Pakistan, citing government directives. This led to a standoff with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
The Fusion Formula Agreement
To resolve the dispute, PCB proposed the ‘Fusion Formula’. Under this, India and Pakistan will play at neutral venues when either country hosts an event in the next three years.
Semi-Final Match Summary
Australia batted first and scored 260 runs. They were bowled out in 49.3 overs. Steve Smith and Alex Carey both scored half-centuries. Smith top-scored with 73 off 96 balls, hitting four fours and a six. Carey contributed 61 off 57 balls.
India's Bowling Performance
Mohammed Shami led the bowling attack with three wickets. Varun Chakravarthy and Ravindra Jadeja took two wickets each. Their disciplined bowling restricted Australia to a chaseable total.
India's Run Chase
India comfortably chased the target, losing six wickets. Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer formed a crucial 91-run partnership for the third wicket. Kohli top-scored with 84 off 98 balls, while Iyer added 45 runs.
What’s Next?
India will now face either South Africa or New Zealand in the final. Cricket fans worldwide are eagerly waiting to see who will lift the trophy.
