In a dramatic turn of events during the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final between India and Australia, Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja found himself at the center of controversy. The incident occurred in the 21st over of the Australian innings at the Dubai International Stadium, leaving Australian captain Steve Smith visibly unimpressed.
As Steve Smith punched a delivery from Jadeja towards Marnus Labuschagne, who was at the non-striker’s end, Jadeja stuck out his right foot, seemingly attempting to hit the ball. However, the ball ricocheted off Labuschagne’s bat and Jadeja, in a comical manner, held Labuschagne by the chest, preventing him from taking a single.
Smith, who was at the striker’s end, immediately gestured towards the umpire, expressing his displeasure with Jadeja’s actions. Former England captain Nasser Hussain, who was on commentary, remarked, “There was a hug right there at the end, Smith not happy with Jadeja stopping Labuschagne”.
Despite the incident, Jadeja continued to shine with the ball. In the 23rd over, he dismissed Labuschagne for 29, trapping him lbw with a delivery that skidded on after pitching. This marked the fourth time Jadeja has dismissed Labuschagne in ODIs. Jadeja’s brilliance didn’t stop there; he also claimed the wicket of Josh Inglis, leaving Australia four down in the 27th over.
Australia, having won the toss and opted to bat first, made two changes to their playing XI, bringing in Tanveer Sangha and Cooper Connolly. India, on the other hand, retained the same XI from their previous match against New Zealand.
The semi-final clash between India and Australia continues to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams vying for a spot in the final of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.
