The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has entered its decisive phase, with the semi-finals set to begin on Tuesday. India, who topped Group A, will take on Australia in the first semi-final in Dubai, while New Zealand face Group B toppers South Africa in Lahore on Wednesday.
Australia’s journey to the semi-finals has been marked by extensive travel. The team flew from Lahore to Dubai on Saturday, uncertain whether they would need to return to Pakistan based on the outcome of India’s final group game against New Zealand.
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India’s 44-run victory ensured Australia’s early trip to Dubai was justified, while South Africa were left to travel back to Pakistan for their clash against New Zealand.
Despite criticism of the tournament’s scheduling, Australian spinner Adam Zampa remained unfazed. “Obviously, we had a bit of a hectic schedule playing a couple of games in Pakistan, back and forth in between cities,” Zampa said. “It’s kind of nice to get here. We’ve got a great facility here at the ICC Academy, changes it up a little bit as well, so yeah, the boys are feeling okay about it.”
Australia have also moved swiftly to cover for the injured Matt Short, with all-rounder Cooper Connolly approved as a replacement. Short was ruled out due to a left quadriceps injury, and Connolly’s left-arm spin could compensate for the absence of Short’s off-spin if he is selected for the crucial semi-final against India.
Zampa, a key component of Australia’s bowling attack, admitted he has not been at his best during the tournament but remains confident in his ability to make an impact. “Personally, I don’t think I’m bowling quite at my best, but I like to think the beauty about me, when I’m not quite at my best and not feeling that great out there, is my ability to still contribute and take those big wickets,” he said.
“So, yeah, (I am) obviously working on some stuff at the moment to hopefully get back to my best. But as I said, the ability to still do a job for the team and get those big wickets is still there, which to me is really important.”
Zampa has taken four wickets in the tournament so far, including figures of 2-48 in the washed-out match against Afghanistan and 2-64 in Australia’s five-wicket win over England. With the semi-final set to take place on spin-friendly wickets in Dubai, his role will be crucial as Australia look to overcome India and secure a place in the final.
