Story by Raksha Bhattacharjee
Following India’s four-wicket victory in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy semi-final, Steve Smith and Virat Kohli displayed excellent sportsmanship.
After India and Australia’s ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final ended, Steve Smith and Virat Kohli showed mutual respect and excellent sportsmanship. Smith and Kohli, members of the widely reported “fab four,” were spotted chatting in the middle after India concluded the match with a four-wicket victory. On social media, the video is currently going viral.
There would be celebrations after KL Rahul scored the game-winning six off Glenn Maxwell’s bowling, and the whole Indian camp was seen bouncing with happiness. When KL Rahul let out a loud cry, older players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli gave each other hugs.
But soon after, the attention turned to Virat Kohli and Steve Smith, who shook hands on the field. Following their embrace, Smith was observed putting his hands on Virat Kohli’s chest. Smith made this unusual gesture, which may have been an expression of gratitude to “chase master” Kohli, who once again served as the driving force behind India’s victorious chase. Additionally, Kohli gave his old teammate at Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Glenn Maxwell, a heartfelt hug. After a short exchange of words, the two shook hands with other players.
Smith and Kohli both had a productive day at work. But Kohli’s effort was the one that beat Australia and Smith. As India chased down the total of 265 with four wickets remaining and 11 balls remaining, the 36-year-old’s 84 runs off 98 balls earned him Player of the Match.
Who will play India in the championship match?
India has won the Champions Trophy three times in a row, and the team will now play the winner of the semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. India won the Champions Trophy in 2013, and the team advanced to the 2017 tournament final before falling to Pakistan in the summit match at the Oval in London.
In reference to the semi-final match between Australia and India, the latter chose to bat first after winning the toss. Australia were knocked out for 264 in 49.3 overs, with Mohammed Shami returning with three wickets. Additionally, Varun Chakaravarthy and Ravindra Jadeja each claimed two wickets. With a hit of 79 and Alex Carey’s 61, Smith was Australia’s leading scorer.
With crucial knocks from Virat Kohli (84), Shreyas Iyer (45), and KL Rahul (42*), India easily chased down the score and refused to allow the strain get to them.
