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India began their pursuit of 265 in the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal with a composed approach. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill found early boundaries, setting a solid foundation. However, Australia fought back swiftly as Ben Dwarshuis dismissed Gill, breaking the opening stand and adding pressure on the Indian batting lineup.
Rohit, while managing to keep the scoreboard ticking, looked far from his fluent best. His innings had moments of luck, as he survived two dropped catches—first by Cooper Connolly and later by Marnus Labuschagne. With Australia tightening their grip, India had to reassess their approach against a disciplined bowling attack.
Cooper Connolly gets rid of Rohit Sharma
Australia found a crucial breakthrough in the eighth over when captain Steve Smith turned to spin, bringing Connolly into the attack. The left-arm spinner maintained a tight line, keeping Rohit under pressure with a series of dot balls.
On the final delivery of the over, Connolly pitched a full-length ball straight at the stumps. Rohit attempted a slog-sweep but mistimed it completely. The impact was in line, and umpire Chris Gaffaney had no hesitation in raising his finger. Rohit opted for a review, but ball-tracking confirmed the ball would crash into leg stump, sealing his fate. He departed for 28 runs, leaving India in a tricky position.
Also WATCH: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma left fuming at Kuldeep Yadav during IND vs AUS Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal
Pumped-up celebration from the youngster
Connolly’s reaction was one of pure elation. Letting out an emphatic roar, the youngster celebrated a pivotal moment in the game. Having had a quiet outing until then, his breakthrough against India’s captain was a game-changer for Australia.
The energy in his celebration reflected the significance of the wicket, shifting the momentum in Australia’s favor. With Rohit back in the pavilion, India’s chase became even more challenging as they aimed to secure a spot in the final.
