Following a spirited four-wicket victory against Australia in Tuesday’s semi-final, Team India guaranteed their place in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final. Virat Kohli led India’s victorious chase of 265 runs and once again pushed his team through with a logical 84-run effort. Michael Clarke, the former captain of Australia, praised Virat Kohli profusely and referred to him as the best one-day cricketer of all time for his ability to perform well under duress.
The loss of both openers, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, in the first eight overs put the Men in Blue in early difficulties as they chased the target. But the innings was steadyed by the 91-run partnership between Kohli and Shreyas Iyer, which helped the team bounce back. Throughout, the seasoned batter hit just five boundaries and dealt with just singles and doubles, keeping his strike rate at 85.71.
Once more, he made a superb assessment of the situation. He was a class player who understood exactly what his team needed and how to position them to win. His century against Pakistan demonstrated the same thing. Virat’s ability to set boundaries is undeniable; he has every stroke in the book. He continues to prove himself on the biggest platform, under the most pressure, and is, in my opinion, the best one-day cricket player of all time. “When it counts most, he delivers and knows what to do,” Clarke stated exclusively on JioHotstar.
They won matches together: Michael Clarke
However, Shreyas Iyer, who scored 45 runs, was also instrumental in the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal run chase. According to Clarke, his aggressive style allowed India to easily defeat the spinners and advance through the middle overs.
“He performed incredibly well. His aggressive attitude, excellent intent, and constant desire to play his strokes relieve his batting partner of some of the burden. Virat Kohli and he are a wonderful match. Because of his background, Virat is able to calm Shreyas and provide guidance when necessary. Without a doubt, their combination won the contest. Australia took a few wickets, but the outcome of the match may have been quite different if they had broken that streak sooner, particularly by getting Virat out. However, India deserves praise for their outstanding performance,” he continued.
Even though Virat Kohli was dismissed to Adam Zampa in the 43rd over for trying an inside-out shot over covers, Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul made sure India made it to the end. Rahul’s undefeated 42 off 34 balls, including the game-winning six, and Pandya’s 28 off 24 balls enabled the team secure victory with four wickets remaining. The victor of the second semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand will now play Rohit & Co. in the finals on March 9 in Dubai.
India
