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Ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal against Australia, Indian captain Rohit Sharma replied to critics who claimed that they have an advantage over other teams playing all their matches in Dubai. While India are yet to be beaten in an ODI in Dubai, former Australia wicketkeeper-batter Brad Haddin feels that Rohit-led side will be under pressure for the semifinal clash on March 4. He sees Australia beating India despite spin-friendly conditions.
"India are in the unique position that they've played every game at the same venue, there is no grass in the square, it is dry. It suits India and I just think all the pressure is on them," Haddin said on the Willow Talk podcast.
"They've got it set up, they're playing great cricket but it's a one-off shootout. Australia pride themselves on making sure they're tournament play is spot-on and this is one of those games. And I don't think there's any pressure on the Australians at all. They've (India) had it all their own way and I can see - I don't know whether it's an upset - but I can see Australia beating India in these conditions. And I hope so, especially for where the tournament's been."
Haddin also pointed out that there will be pressure on head coach Gautam Gambhir as well. He pointed out that the team hasn't had much success since Gambhir has taken over and anything less than a win will result in a big reaction.
"I think there's a lot of pressure on India, with the way they've played their cricket since (coach) Gautam Gambhir has taken over. They probably haven't had the success or style of game that's really been that attractive for the last six months. So I think the pressure is right on India to make a final. And I think if they don't make the final, there will be a big reaction," Haddin opined.
India vs Australia, Champions Trophy head-to-head
India and Australia have faced each other four times in Champions Trophy history. Their last encounter in 2009 edition was abandoned due to rain as rain intervened in 43rd over of Australia's innings. Before that India lost to Australia in Mohali in the 2006 edition. In the other two encounters (1998 and 2000), India won batting first.
