Rohit Sharma Addresses India’s Selection Dilemma Ahead of Champions Trophy Semi-Final
India captain Rohit Sharma has confirmed that team selections for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final against Australia will be based on matchups, as the team looks to fine-tune its strategy.
One of India’s biggest surprises in their recent win over New Zealand was the outstanding performance of right-arm leg spinner Varun Chakravarthy. Despite being 33 years old and playing only his second ODI, Chakravarthy delivered a game-changing spell, claiming his maiden five-wicket haul with figures of 5/42 in 10 overs.
He was the only change from the squad that defeated Pakistan, replacing Harshit Rana to strengthen India’s spin attack on a Dubai pitch that has heavily favored slow bowlers throughout the tournament. His impact was undeniable, making it difficult for the selectors to leave him out for the high-stakes semi-final against Australia at the same venue.
“We just wanted to see what Varun could offer,” Rohit said after the match. “He’s got something different about him, no doubt. He was class today. When he gets it right, he’s very difficult to read.
“We need to think about our plans for the next game (against Australia), but obviously, this is a good headache to have.”
Even New Zealand pacer Matt Henry acknowledged Chakravarthy’s brilliance, praising the challenge he posed to their batters.
“He bowled beautifully, didn’t he?” Henry said. “He showed his skill tonight—the way he turned the ball both ways and even varied his pace. He was brilliant, and they kept us under pressure throughout.”
India’s game plan in Dubai has leaned heavily on spin, with 37 of the 45.3 overs they bowled against New Zealand coming from their slow bowlers. Their ability to read and adapt to the conditions has been a key factor in their dominant group-stage performance, something Australia will be well aware of heading into the semi-final.
Tamim and Mushfiqur Lift the Trophy Amidst Chaos in the Stands.
Henry noted that India’s approach played to their strengths in the Dubai conditions.
“The way they used four frontline spinners was really effective,” he said. “They understood the conditions well, and it showed in the way they bowled tonight.”
India enters the semi-final not only familiar with the conditions but also full of confidence, having won all three of their group-stage matches.
“It was important for us to finish the group stage on a high,” Rohit said. “New Zealand has been playing really good cricket lately, so getting this win was crucial. The total we put up was good enough, and we had full confidence in our bowlers to defend it. They really stepped up and got the job done.”
For Australia, the challenge is twofold—not just performing in a high-pressure knockout game but also figuring out how to counter India’s well-oiled strategy.
However, Rohit is not underestimating the Aussies, a team with a history of thriving in major ICC tournaments.
