Steve Smith https://www.cricketwinner.com Steve Smith Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:12:28 GMT https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html https://github.com/jpmonette/feed en Copyright © 2024 Cricket Winner. All Rights Reserved. <![CDATA[ICC Announces Player of the Month Nominees for February]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/icc-announces-player-of-the-month-nominees-for-february/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/icc-announces-player-of-the-month-nominees-for-february/ Fri, 07 Mar 2025 08:37:12 GMT

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the best performers of February in international cricket, identifying three men and three women cricketers who performed exceptionally well on the field.

Men's Player of the Month Nominees

Shubman Gill (India): Made 406 runs at more than 100 average, including a century against Bangladesh and important contributions in India's series victory over England.

Glenn Phillips (New Zealand): Starred in the Tri-Nation Series with a century and solid performances in the Champions Trophy opener.

Steve Smith (Australia): Led Australia to a Test series sweep over Sri Lanka with back-to-back centuries.

ALSO SEE: RCB Star Ellyse Perry Talks About The Maha Kumbh Mela

Women’s Player of the Month Nominees

Alana King (Australia): Took nine wickets in the Women’s Ashes Test, delivering a match-winning performance.

Thipatcha Putthawong (Thailand): Led the wicket charts in the Nepal Women’s Tri-Nation Series and played a crucial all-round role.

Annabel Sutherland (Australia): Scored 163 in the Ashes Test, becoming the first woman to score a Test century at the venue.

Voting Process

The ICC Voting Academy and fans worldwide will vote to decide the winners. Fans can cast their votes at icc-cricket.com/awards, with results announced next week.

]]>
<![CDATA[3 Players Who Could Replace Steve Smith in Australia’s ODI Squad]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/3-players-who-could-replace-steve-smith-in-australia-s-odi-squad/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/3-players-who-could-replace-steve-smith-in-australia-s-odi-squad/ Thu, 06 Mar 2025 12:52:21 GMT

Australia after losing to India in the semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. While the team had a good tournament, unexpected news Steve Smith announced his retirement from ODI cricket.  

Smith is known for his success and best solid defense in Test cricket, but he has also been a key player in ODIs, scoring 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28 in 170 matches. He played an important role at the top of the order, keeping the innings steady in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.  

After Smith retired, Australia had to find someone to take his place. Replacing a three-time World Cup winner won’t be easy, and whoever takes responsibility in crucial times.

Three players who could take his role in the ODIs:

3. Matthew Short

Matthew Short could be the best option to replace Steve Smith in the ODI team. Though he has been opening the batting lately, he might also be considered for the number three spot and he is Capable to do things like Steve Smith. He has the skills and technique to play a similar role to Smith, he has a great chance for him to prove himself.  

Short has played 15 ODIs for Australia, scoring 280 runs, including two half-centuries one of them against England in the Champions Trophy. Besides his batting, he can also bowl handy off-spin, adding extra options in spin to the team.  

Short has already made a big impact with the Adelaide Strikers in the BBL. With his all-around abilities, he could be a strong choice to replace Steve Smith for the number three position in ODIs.

ALSO READ: "Gautam Gambhir Faces Criticism Over 'Hollow Victory' Jibe from South African Media"

2. Cooper Connolly

Cooper Connolly is a young talent and skilled player in Australian cricket. The 21-year-old all-rounder hasn’t had the best start to his international career yet, but he has done well in domestic Cricket and BBL. He’s a strong batter and can also bowl left-arm spin.  

Cooper Connolly has played only four ODIs so far, but his performances in first-class cricket and the Big Bash League have been impressive. He had a great BBL season with the Perth Scorchers, scoring 351 runs at an average of 50.14. With his skills and potential, he could be a good option for Australia to develop for Steve Smith’s role in the ODI team.

1. Marnus Labuschagne

Marnus Labuschagne has been a good player in the middle order, but with Steve Smith retiring, he could move up to take the number three spot and he has that Capability to play in NO.3. He has skills and he played so many Crucial games in tough times, not just in ODIs but also in Test cricket. Marnus Labuschagne is known for his stylish shots and ability to play long innings, making him a strong option to replace Smith.  

Labuschagne played 63 matches, scoring 1,869 runs at an average of 35.94, with two centuries and 12 half-centuries in ODIs. With his batting and leadership potential, he could also be a future captain for the Australian team.

 

 

]]>
<![CDATA[Steve Smith and an ODI Career with a Lot of What Could Have Been Moments]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/steve-smith-and-an-odi-career-with-a-lot-of-what-could-have-been-moments/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/steve-smith-and-an-odi-career-with-a-lot-of-what-could-have-been-moments/ Thu, 06 Mar 2025 05:27:38 GMT

Steve Smith the Test Batter has got his respect. Average 56 with centuries all around the legend of the Test batter in him is evident. As a Cricketer though his career has taken some wonderous turns. Starting off as a leggie who could bat at number eight, touted to be the next Shane Warne, Steve Smith was seen as a primary T20 cricketer for his bits and pieces ability. Ironically, T20is turns out to be the first format he was dropped out of. A forgotten format though in between for the World and for the greatness of Steven Smith is the ODI Format.

His ODI career has been nothing short of marvelous. He came in after the golden group of Australian Cricket with the likes of Ponting, Hayden, Brett Lee and Adam Gilchrist were on the wane. He played the 2011 World Cup as a lower-order all-rounder. His initial stages were full of criticism. His technique did not seem like one that would survive against quality bowling but then there was Steve Smith who finally got his chance at number three in 2014, and a chance to make the spot his own. The batter in him was in his own zone in the format. Quickly making a mark with his ability to pick gaps like few could and go through gears, Steve Smith was among the more aggressive of his fab four partners. 

His story came to life in the summer of 2014. If Mitchell Johnson terrorized the Englishmen in 2013. Steve Smith did the same during the summer of 2014-2015 against India. He was incredible in the Test and it was he who ended India's dream run of wins in the 2015 World Cup with a classy and demoralizing century in 2015. It was India vs Steve Smith that summer and the Semi-Final knock capped it off well. Before the Semi-Final he had another nice run against Pakistan, looking at ease against Wahab Riaz who had Shane Watson in all sorts of discomfort.

His captaincy career though in ODIs went with some challenges. Taking the reins after 2015, he was unfortunate in the Champions Trophy in 2017 with rain ruining two of their games and ending their tournament early. He didn't get to lead in a World Cup but found form in the format beautifully with twin centuries off 60 balls against India highlighting his ability to dominate in the format. He scored runs against the likes of Bumrah effortlessly, extending his test match brilliance into the ODI format. A trait that continuously goes unnoticed though is his ability to accelerate and change gears. He has two 60-ball centuries against India and was the aggressor in the partnership with Aaron Finch in the 2015 World Cup Semi-Final. 

See Also: Steve Smith shows his street smartness

As a captain, he finally got his chance to shine in the ongoing Champions Trophy. Smith though was unfortunate again with the big three missing leaving him with a very inexperienced pace attack and middle-order. Without the bowling might in his team, Smith managed to take the game till the 49th over defending only 260 odd. His captaincy was great but his batting was where the final nail may have been done in the coffin. Cruising, Steve Smith missed a full-toss to get bowled in a moment similar to the drop catch that led to Adam Gilchrist announcing his subsequent retirement. He is not done yet though. Steve Smith could see this as a chance to extend his Test career or he may well end it with the upcoming Ashes as well, but with limited time left Steve Smith's technique is left to be enjoyed. 

He leaves a hole in the ODI side but that is likely to be incomparable with the one he will leave when he calls it a day in Test Cricket. Ever reliable, Steve Smith leaves Australia with a tough task as they build for 2027.

]]>
<![CDATA[Steve Smith – A True Cricket Legend Whose Brilliance Caught a No-Ball Before It Was Even Bowled]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/steve-smith-a-true-cricket-legend-whose-brilliance-caught-a-no-ball-before-it-was-even-bowled/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/steve-smith-a-true-cricket-legend-whose-brilliance-caught-a-no-ball-before-it-was-even-bowled/ Thu, 06 Mar 2025 04:41:08 GMT

Let’s go to the past and see one of Steve Smith’s smartest moments on the cricket field. His quick thinking not only earned Australia a no-ball but also showed why he’s one of the sharpest minds in Cricket history.

Steve Smith’s Smart Move: He Knew It Was a No-Ball Before the Ball Was Bowled

During the third ODI between Australia and New Zealand, Smith, who was in good form and playing an incredible knock after 22 months, noticed something unusual in the field setting. New Zealand’s captain, Kane Williamson, had placed five fielders outside the 30-yard circle instead of the allowed four. While most players might have missed it, Smith caught the mistake instantly.

On the second ball of the 37th over, Smith smashed a six, but even before celebrating, he pointed out the fielding error to the umpire after hitting a six in that ball. As per the rules, the delivery was called a no-ball, and Australia got a free hit. This moment once again proved how well Smith understands the game and how quickly he reacts under pressure.

ALSO READ: Cricket's Fab Four: The End of an Era?

Smith scored a brilliant 105 off 131 balls, hitting 11 boundaries and one six. His knock helped Australia to score 267 runs. In reply, New Zealand could only manage 242, and Australia won by 25 runs, sealing a 3-0 series sweep the series. This moment sums up Smith’s cricketing brilliance. His retirement marks the end of a great career, but memories like these will keep his legacy alive in the Cricket.

]]>
<![CDATA["Kohli’s Gesture for ‘Retiring’ Steve Smith Breaks the Internet"]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/kohli-s-gesture-for-retiring-steve-smith-breaks-the-internet/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/kohli-s-gesture-for-retiring-steve-smith-breaks-the-internet/ Thu, 06 Mar 2025 03:55:46 GMT

Cricket fans the world over witnessed an emotional moment as Australian batting legend Steve Smith announced his retirement from ODI cricket because of Australia's Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal loss against India in Dubai. A touching on-field exchange between Virat Kohli and Smith, amid the heartbreaking defeat, has gone viral, evoking admiration and speculation across social media.

A Gesture That Said It All
The moment that caught the attention of the internet happened right after the match, when "Kohli and Smith were seen having a little talk before sharing an emotional hug". Social media users believe that it was at this moment that Smith told Kohli he would be retiring. In the viral video, Kohli appears to ask Smith whether it was his last ODI match, to which the Australian great gives a subtle nod in confirmation.

"Smith Confirms ODI Retirement"
Smith formally announced his ODI retirement, saying that it is the right time for him to step aside in assurance that Australia is building towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.

"It has been a great ride, and I has loved every minute of it," said Smith in a media release to Cricket Australia. "Some of the most memorable moments come from winning two World Cups for sure and by sharing the journey with many amazing teammates".

Smith was a key member of Australia's winning squads in 2015 and 2023 and was subsequently named Australia's Men's ODI Player of the Year in 2015 and 2021. He had taken over as ODI captain in 2015, leading the team in his final game in an honorary capacity for his tall companion, Pat Cummins, who was injured.

"I think now is a great opportunity for people to start preparing for the 2027 World Cup, so it feels like the right time to make way," Smith added. 

Although he has retired from ODIs, the 35-year-old will continue to play Test and T20 cricket, with the attention turning toward the World Test Championship Final in June. "I honestly believe that I still have a lot to contribute in this format," he insisted, while also giving high priority to the longest version of the game.

Fans React to the Emotional Moment
Smith's announcement and the exchange he had with Kohli have drawn a torrent of admiration from across the cricketing fraternity.

Fans took to social media, praising Kohli's sportsmanship and Smith's legendary career. One fan wrote, ''This is what cricket is all about: rivalry on the field but pure respect off it!'' Another tweeted, "Two legends. One unforgettable moment. Cricket won today".

Kohli-Smith camaraderie has remained one of the most talked-about aspects of modern cricket, where their rivalry flourished through multiple ICC tournaments and iconic Border-Gavaskar Trophy battles; despite the intensity of their tussles, the two have shown genuine respect for each other time and again.

Also Read: Gautam Gambhir Breaks Silence on Rohit Sharma Retirement Rumors: A Clash of Perspectives or a Unified Vision?

The End of an Era
With Smith's exit from ODIs marking Australia as an end to an era, allied with the forward flow of cricket. Brilliant stylist; superiority in composure; steadfast will have been an edifice on which Australia built white-ball legitimacy for an uninterrupted stretch that extended more than a decade.

While Kohli's gesture makes sure Smith is given the fitting send-off he so richly deserves, it further brings into view the abiding respect two of the best players in this cricket world hold for each other.

]]>
<![CDATA[Cricket's Fab Four: The End of an Era?"]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/cricket-s-fab-four-the-end-of-an-era/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/cricket-s-fab-four-the-end-of-an-era/ Wed, 05 Mar 2025 19:01:29 GMT

For nearly a decade, cricket fans worldwide admired the legendary 'Fab Four': Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Kane Williamson, and Joe Root. These four players were the biggest faces in international cricket, across formats, for almost a decade, bombarding records with great consistency, technique, and leadership. However, as time passes, the once-invicible quartet is now showing signs of fading away, raising questions about the next era of cricketing greats.

The Fab Four In Tests
Test cricket has been the ultimate proving ground for these four marstros. Kohli's dominant captaincy and stroke play, Smith's unorthodox but very effective technique, Williamson's calmness, and Root's classical style make them a force to reckon with. However, with age comes a different team dynamic, slowly nearing the edge of this sheer joy. Though Root and Williamson continue to be key players for their teams, Smith and Kohli have, in more recent years, struggled to provide that consistency.

The Fab Four In ODIs
The Image in below post a noticeable shift - Smith has turned black and white, suggesting that he is no longer capable of using his own skills. While modern-day cricket embraces power-hitting and aggressive strike rates, the dominance of the Fab Four in ODIs has been challenged by rising stars such as Babar Azam and Shubman Gill. While Kohli is still as formidable as ever, his role continues to evolve, while Williamson and Root seem to be throwing in the towel and unable to maintain their high standards in ODIs.

Also Read : IPL 2025 ticket updates: booking, availability & official partners

The T20I Scenario of the Fab Four 
If there is one thing to take away from this image of T20 cricket, it is that the influential players of the format—Captain Kohli, Captain Smith, and Captain Root—all have reduced influences on T20. Power hitters and batting with a focus on the strike rate have largely edged out these players. Even though Williamson is hailed as an astute captain, he has not been hitting it big in terms of strike rates. As for Root, he has rarely made an appearance on the T20I stage.

The Future of the Fab Four 
Now as the Fab Four slowly dissolve, they leave behind unanswered questions: who will be winning these winks instead? Enter Babar Azam, Marnus Labuschagne, and Shubman Gill, who are already making their presence felt. But Kohli, Smith, Williamson, and Root will be an impossible feat to replicate. Cricket is in a state of transition.

Although the Fab Four show every sign of no longer being in their prime, their endeavors have forever inscribed them into history. Whether they will have a second innings or leave the scene gracefully will still play out. For now, it is the fans who can only turn back the pages of history and reminisce about the golden age they created.

]]>
<![CDATA[Steve Smith Ends ODI Career, Commits to Test and T20I Formats]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/steve-smith-ends-odi-career-commits-to-test-and-t20i-formats/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/steve-smith-ends-odi-career-commits-to-test-and-t20i-formats/ Wed, 05 Mar 2025 08:50:27 GMT

Australian cricket veteran Steve Smith has made his One Day International (ODI) retirement official after Australia's semi-final loss to India in the Champions Trophy 2025. The 35-year-old veteran batter, who scored a gritty 73 as the top scorer for his side, told his teammates straight after the match that it was his last ODI outing.

But Smith has asserted that he will play Test and T20I cricket, with emphasis on future big red-ball series, such as the World Test Championship Final, West Indies tour, and Ashes series against England in Australia.

An Emotional Farewell

Looking back at his career, Smith has credited being part of an exemplary ODI career lasting almost 15 years. It has been a wonderful ride, and I have enjoyed every moment of it. There have been so many great times and great memories. Winning two World Cups was a wonderful highlight, as well as the many great teammates who were part of the journey," Smith stated.

He added that with the 2027 ODI World Cup looming, it was the appropriate time for Australia to begin planning for the future.

Now is an excellent time for individuals to begin preparing for the 2027 World Cup, so it is the perfect time to step aside."

Steve Smith's Magnificent ODI Career

Smith departs ODIs with a fantastic record:

ALSO SEE: David Warner Set for Tollywood Debut in ‘Robinhood’

  • 5800 runs in 170 games
  • 12 centuries and 32 half-centuries
  • Two-time ICC Cricket World Cup champion (2015, 2023)
  • Captained Australia in 64 ODIs, winning 32

Smith was instrumental in Australia's 2015 World Cup win under Michael Clarke and also a member of the team that won the trophy once again in 2023 under Pat Cummins.

His stint in leadership included many highlights such as series wins against England and India in 2016, a Chappell-Hadlee Trophy victory, and a tri-series victory over South Africa and West Indies. His most recent effort was guiding Australia to a 3-0 ODI clean sweep against West Indies in 2023-24.

Tribute from Cricket Australia

After his statement, Cricket Australia's Selectors Chairman, George Bailey, noted Smith's input into Australian cricket.

"We wholeheartedly agree and endorse Steve's retirement from One Day International cricket. His batting record over 167 matches is second to none, and to depart the format as a two-time World Cup champion is testament to his place among the great Australian ODI players."

Bailey also reaffirmed that Smith is entirely committed to Test cricket, where he remains an integral leader and precious asset.

The Journey of a Leg-Spinner to a Great Batsman

The career of Smith on the international scene started in 2010, when he played as a leg-spinning all-rounder against the West Indies. Over time, he developed into one of the great batters of his time with his unorthodox batting and capability to command in all weather.

Apart from his batting exploits, Smith also made contributions with the ball, picking up 28 wickets at a mean of 34.67. His performance in ODIs saw him receive several awards, including:

  • Australian Men's ODI Player of the Year (2015, 2021)
  • ICC Men's ODI Team of the Year (2015)

What's Next for Smith?
Even though his ODI career is over, Smith's attention now turns to red-ball cricket, where he is still an integral part of the Australian Test team. With the World Test Championship Final, the West Indies tour, and the Ashes series on the horizon, fans can still look forward to witnessing the Australian maestro at his best.

As Australia sets its sights on a new era of ODIs, Steve Smith's legacy as a two-time World Cup champion, a fearless captain, and one of the greatest batters of his era will always be remembered in cricketing history.

]]>
<![CDATA[ICC Champions Trophy 2025, (1st Semi-final) IND vs AUS: Clinical India create history by reaching fifth CT final]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/icc-champions-trophy-2025-1st-semi-final-ind-vs-aus-clinical-india-create-history-by-reaching-fifth-ct-final/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/icc-champions-trophy-2025-1st-semi-final-ind-vs-aus-clinical-india-create-history-by-reaching-fifth-ct-final/ Tue, 04 Mar 2025 16:07:34 GMT

Finally, India's wound of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 Final loss against Australia got some healing sense after Men in Blue beat Australia by four wickets in the first Semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. 

It was a good fighting game, where Australian captain Steven Smith rightly chose to bat first at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. While Australia put the challenging total of 264 all out (49.3 overs), India chased down the target in 48.1 overs after losing six wickets. 

Australia lost plots after making multiple comebacks

The new Aussie opener Cooper Connolly had a hard luck as he scored a nine-ball duck as Mohammed Shami got that wicket. Another opener Travis Head was strongly hitting the Indian pacers after managing some luck in the first few overs. However, at 39 off 33 balls (five fours and two sixes), Varun Chakravarthy took Head's wicket in the ninth over as Shubman Gill took a good catch running from the long off. 

Captain Steven Smith and Marnus Labuschagne had some early luck as they had a 56-run partnership for the third wicket. Ravindra Jadeja took Labuschagne's wicket, who scored 29 off 36 balls. Josh Inglis (11) was the next victim of Jadeja. 

Alex Carey batted well with Smith as they had a 54-run partnership for the fifth wicket. After completing his 50 runs in 68 balls, Smith was strongly approaching the big score, while Carey was moving the scoreboard quickly. However, Smith made one big mistake as he went to slog Mohammed Shami, and Shami's full toss hit the wicket after Smith missed it. It was a crucial wicket for India as Smith scored 73 off 96 balls with four fours and one six. 

Glenn Maxwell was bowled by Axar Patel for seven runs, and that dismissal happened next ball after Maxwell's sixer to Patel. Only Carey was adding strong runs since then, while Ben Dwarshuis (19) and Nathan Ellis (10) helped with double-digit scores. 

Carey completed his brave 50 runs in 48 balls and scored 61 off 57 balls with the help of eight fours and one six before Iyer's direct hit ended his innings. 

Among the Indian bowlers, Mohammed Shami (3/48) took three wickets, while Varun Chakravarthy (2/49) and Ravindra Jadeja (2/40) picked up two wickets each. 

Rough start didn't bother the "Super Chaser" Kohli and middle-order batters

At chasing, in-form opener Shubman Gill was bowled for eight runs by Ben Dwarshuis, while captain Rohit Sharma (28 off 29 balls) got two lives before Cooper Connolly dismissed him through an lbw. From the pressure situation, Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer built up a 91-run partnership for the third wicket. 

Kohli completed his half-century in 53 balls, while Iyer was bowled by Adam Zampa after scoring 45 off 62 balls. While Kohli hit four fours to complete his half-century, he mostly worked with singles and doubles to rotate the strike strongly. 

Axar Patel and Kohli had another crucial 44-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Patel scored 27 off 30 balls before Nathan Ellis bowled him. Kohli had another valuable 47-run partnership with KL Rahul, who also produced valuable support in that tricky chase. 

Adam Zampa took Kohli's wicket after the Player of the Match scored 84 off 98 balls, where he hit only five fours. When Kohli was dismissed, India needed 40 runs in 44 balls. 

See Also: Virat Kohli Creates History with Most 50+ Scores in ICC ODI Events

Although Hardik Pandya played many dot balls in his 24-ball innings, his three long sixes, including two successive sixes in Zampa's last two balls of the match, became the ultimate decider of the Semi-final. Although Ellis dismissed Pandya for 28 off 24 balls, Rahul comfortably finished the game with Ravindra Jadeja. While Rahul was not out for 42 off 34 balls (two fours and two sixes), Jadeja scored two not out.

India set new records

With this win, India created new history by becoming the first team to reach the ICC Champions Trophy Final for the fifth time. They previously reached in the 2000, 2002, 2013, and 2017 editions, respectively. While they lost the 2000 Final against New Zealand, the 2002 Final had no results in two different matches (one official Final and the other reserve-day Final) and they jointly won that trophy with the hosts Sri Lanka, then India beat the hosts England in the 2013 Final to win the trophy, and ultimately lost the 2017 Final against Pakistan. 

The successful chase of 265 runs was also the highest successful chase against Australia in a knockout stage game of any ICC ODI tournaments. 

]]>
<![CDATA[Does Steve Smith Have Any Special Message For India Ahead Of Their Semi Final Clash]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/does-steve-smith-have-any-special-message-for-india-ahead-of-their-semi-final-clash/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/does-steve-smith-have-any-special-message-for-india-ahead-of-their-semi-final-clash/ Tue, 04 Mar 2025 07:44:11 GMT

India and Australia are once again in the cards of the semi-final where Australia would be hoping to keep their dominance on India. On the other hand, India won't forget the injury that was caused on the eve of the World Cup final in Ahmedabad where India lost the World Cup in their backyard. This will be a fiery contest between these two teams. As there have been few changes in both the side's squads. 

India has lost their pace attacker Bumrah who has been sidelined due to a back injury. And there in Australia has lost their Captain Pat Cummins, and pace bowlers like Hazelwood and Mitchell Starc. It would be more of a contest with the bat. Australia chased a difficult target of 375 in their first encounter of the Champions Trophy against England. England's batting was firey at their innings. It seemed a lost game for them but this team is unpredictable and can pull off anything as different individuals rise on hard occasions. 

Read More: Jos Butler Pens Down From England Captaincy

Smith With A Special Message To India 

Their second and third match were whitewashed due to rain and they had to face South Africa and Afghanistan. Due to a better run rate Australia secured the top spot on Pool A. India won their all matches and secured the top spot in Pool B. It's Australia and India once again in the cards will it be a repeat of 2023 or India will seek their revenge? Through their ongoing presser meet it was been asked of a message to captains for each other. It all started when captain of Australia Pat Cummins made a statement " Nothing More Satisfying Than A Big Crowd Go Silent"

And won the World Cup 2023 in India and silenced the crowd He asked current Australian skipper Steve Smith whether he has any special message for India this time. Smith responded Yeah, I don't have a message, to be honest. Smith was dropped from captaincy after the sandpaper scandal which became the talk of the town both Steve Smith and Warner were banned for 1 year by Cricket Australia, and after that, Pat Cummins was appointed as captain for Australia. 

Read More: Rohit Sharma Goes With A Different Template Against Australia In Semi Finals

Smith is Back On Guard

 Due to the ongoing injury of Pat Cummins which happened in a recent BGT series, Steve Smith has been called to captain Cricket Australia. It was too asked about the advantage that India possesses in the Champions Trophy. Smith says ya they have a slight edge as they have played all their, games here and accessed the pitch very well. India has quality spinners. 

Our priority will be taking on their spinners and playing into our merit. He said India is a tough team to challenge but we too had our preparation spot on. We too have included the spin department. The morning I spoke to the groundsman and he stated it was a dry pitch and spinners will come into play, we are looking for a good game. 

]]>
<![CDATA[IND vs AUS Predicted Playing 11, Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Final: India's Mystery Spinner Varun Will Be in Action Against Australia ]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ind-vs-aus-predicted-playing-11-champions-trophy-2025-semi-final-india-s-mystery-spinner-varun-will-be-in-action-against-australia/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ind-vs-aus-predicted-playing-11-champions-trophy-2025-semi-final-india-s-mystery-spinner-varun-will-be-in-action-against-australia/ Tue, 04 Mar 2025 05:09:20 GMT

India will play with Australia in the first semi-final of the Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai on Tuesday. Australia is a tough opponent for India in ICC knockout matches in every ICC tournament, making this a crucial test for Rohit Sharma and the Indian team.

The big question is whether India will stick to their four-spinner strategy or take in an extra fast bowler to support Mohammed Shami and Hardik Pandya, especially with a fresh pitch ij the semi-finals.

India might go with Varun Chakaravarthy’s magical spin to challenge Australia in the Semi-finals. Indian spin attack played a huge role in defending the lowest total against New Zealand. Mohammed Shami hasn’t been in his best form, India is likely to go with its current bowling combination which played against New Zealand.

Australia replaced their injured opener Matt Short with Jake Fraser-McGurk, but they are more likely to play it safe by adding spin-bowling all-rounder Cooper Connolly in the middle order in the Semi-finals. If that will happens wicketkeeper Josh Inglis, who scored his first century in Australia’s opening match against England, could go for open the batting in this important semi-final against India.

ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma Goes With A Different Template Against Australia In Semi Finals

India predicted playing XI: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy 

Australia predicted playing XI: Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Steven Smith (capt), Marnus Labuschagne, Cooper Connolly, Alex Carey, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Spencer Johnson, Adam Zampa.

Squads

India Squad: Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul(w), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana.

Australia Squad: Jake Fraser-McGurk, Travis Head, Steven Smith(c), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis(w), Alex Carey, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson, Sean Abbott, Aaron Hardie, Tanveer Sangha, Cooper Connolly.

]]>