India’s semifinal triumph against Australia in the 2025 Champions Trophy, securing a four-wicket win in Dubai on Tuesday, has altered the tournament’s final venue. Pakistan, initially slated as host, will now see the final played in Dubai, as per a hybrid agreement with the ICC. This shift from Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium has triggered online reactions from Indian fans, who are playfully mocking Pakistan for missing out on hosting the final.
Virat Kohli’s impressive 84 runs, complemented by KL Rahul’s unbeaten 42 and Hardik Pandya’s quick 28, propelled India to victory against Australia in the Champions Trophy semifinal at Dubai International Stadium.
This win marks India’s third consecutive qualification for the Champions Trophy final. They are set to compete against the winner of the second semifinal, featuring South Africa and New Zealand, in Dubai on March 9.
With all of India’s matches held in Dubai, a pre-tournament agreement ensured the final would be moved to Dubai if India reached this stage, due to their decision not to play in Pakistan.
Social media users have reacted with humor, with one fan commenting online that Gaddafi Stadium was “knocked out” of the Champions Trophy. Pakistan’s journey in the tournament concluded in the league stage after defeats to New Zealand and India in their initial matches.
The final is scheduled for March 9 in Dubai, where India will face the winner of the second semifinal between New Zealand and South Africa, which will be played in Lahore on Wednesday.
