New Delhi: The first semi-final of the Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place on Tuesday in Dubai, where India and Australia will battle for a spot in the final. Team India has dominated the tournament so far, winning all their group-stage matches. Their latest victory came against New Zealand, and now they face Australia in a high-stakes encounter.

As India prepares for this crucial clash, the team is likely to rely on spin bowlers, with Varun Chakravarthy expected to feature in the playing XI.

India’s Road to the Semi-Final

India has been in excellent form, winning all three group matches:

Defeated Bangladesh in the opening match.

Secured a win against Pakistan in a high-pressure game.

Clinched victory over New Zealand in the final group-stage encounter.

Among the standout performers, Shreyas Iyer has been India’s top run-scorer, amassing 150 runs in three matches. His spot in the semi-final playing XI is almost certain. Shubman Gill, who scored a century against Bangladesh, has also been a key contributor, tallying 149 runs in three games.

India Likely to Play Four Spinners

Given the pitch conditions in Dubai, India might opt for a spin-heavy attack. Varun Chakravarthy, who took five wickets against New Zealand, is expected to play a vital role. Kuldeep Yadav could also be included, along with Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel, both of whom bring all-round abilities.

Australia’s Strategy & Key Players

Australia had a disrupted group stage, as two of their three matches were washed out due to rain. However, they secured their place in the semi-final with a win over England.

Under the leadership of Steve Smith, Australia is likely to open with Travis Head and Jake Fraser-McGurk. Josh Inglis is expected to be part of the playing XI as well. The team could rely on leg-spinner Adam Zampa and all-rounder Glenn Maxwell to perform on Dubai’s spinning tracks.

Predicted Playing XIs for India vs Australia Semi-Final

India: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (WK), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy

Australia: Travis Head, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis (WK), Alex Carey, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson

With both teams looking strong, the India vs Australia semi-final promises to be an intense battle, with a spot in the Champions Trophy 2025 final at stake.