Former cricketer Deep Dasgupta believes that India has a “good chance” of winning the ICC Champions Trophy, but he has cautioned Rohit Sharma’s side about the threat posed by Australia ahead of their semi-final clash on Tuesday.
India’s Strong Run and Spin Dominance
India finished at the top of Group A after a dominant 44-run victory over New Zealand. Deploying a four-spinner strategy, India outfoxed the Kiwis, with Varun Chakravarthy’s mystery spin (5/42) proving decisive. The win set up a high-stakes semi-final encounter against Australia in Dubai.
Backing India’s chances, Deep Dasgupta told media:
“There are good chances. There is no doubt about it. Everyone is in good form. Bowlers and batters are contributing. The real ICC Champions Trophy has just started. If you remove the first two matches, the real ICC Champions Trophy has started with the New Zealand match. There are chances, but it won’t be easy.”
“To Be the Best, You Have to Beat the Best”
If India manages to avenge their 2023 ODI World Cup final loss against Australia in the semi-final, they will face either New Zealand or South Africa in the final on March 9.
Deep Dasgupta believes that India should not worry about their final opponent, emphasizing that the path to victory requires overcoming the toughest teams:
“From an Indian perspective, whether it is Australia, South Africa, or New Zealand, it doesn’t matter. If you have to be the best, you have to beat the best.”
Warning: Australia’s Knockout Pedigree
Despite Australia missing key players like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Marsh, and Marcus Stoinis, Deep Dasgupta warned that their knockout-stage experience and winning mentality make them a dangerous opponent:
“Australia is such a team that knows how ICC tournaments are played. It is not just about skill. It is about temperament, mindset, etc., and I think Australia knows that better than others.”
Road to the Final
India will take on Australia in the first semi-final on Tuesday in Dubai, while New Zealand will face South Africa on Wednesday in Lahore. The winners will clash in the final on March 9.