Dubai witnessed a thrilling moment in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal between India and Australia as Axar Patel produced a crucial breakthrough by dismissing the dangerous Glenn Maxwell. (Match Blog | Full Coverage)
The left-arm spinner, known for his accuracy, redeemed himself instantly after being hit for a six, knocking over Maxwell's stumps in the same over.
Maxwell, who is renowned for his aggressive stroke play, walked in with the intent to accelerate Australia’s innings. In the 38th over, he took on Axar and smashed a six, sending a warning sign to the Indian camp.
However, the very next ball saw a drastic turn of events. Axar delivered a well-disguised length ball on the middle stump, and Maxwell, attempting a similar attacking shot, completely missed the ball. It crashed into the stumps, silencing the Australian dugout and sending the Indian fans into celebration mode.
Veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle summed up the moment perfectly on air, saying, "So so Maxwell. If you were to summarise Maxwell's career in two balls, these were those two balls."
This dismissal came at a crucial juncture, especially after Mohammad Shami had already removed Steve Smith in the previous over. With two key wickets falling in quick succession, Australia found themselves under immense pressure.
Despite the setbacks, Australia found hope in Alex Carey, who notched up a fighting half-century. Meanwhile, lower-order batter Ben Dwarshuis launched some big hits which helped to push the total to a competitive score of 264 runs.
However, India’s bowling unit kept the pressure on. Ravindra Jadeja and Varun Chakravarthy were the pick of the bowlers, each claiming two wickets and keeping the Aussies from gaining momentum. Shami ended his spell with three wickets.
Australia came into this crucial knockout clash without key pacers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, forcing them to make tactical adjustments. Spinner Tanveer Sangha was drafted into the playing XI, replacing Spencer Johnson.
Rohit Sharma’s men have looked unstoppable in this tournament, having secured consecutive wins against Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand in the group stage.
India bowled out Australia for 264 runs. Now, India need 265 runs to win this match and enter the final of the tournament.
