Kuldeep Yadav Reveals Why India Didn’t Want To Play Australia In Champions Trophy Final

India recently won the 2025 edition of the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai by defeating New Zealand in the final. They also faced Australia in the semifinal and triumphed over them, with Virat Kohli leading India in a comfortable run chase. 

Speaking in the Beyond 23 Cricket Podcast, Kuldeep Yadav explained why the team preferred facing Australia in the semifinal rather than the final. Notably, the Australians could not be defeated in the final of the ODI World Cup in 2023.

“I had Hernia surgery in November, so it was difficult to come back and find the same rhythm,” Kuldeep said. 

“I personally believe that it was a good tournament for us. We wanted to face Australia in the semi-final, we don’t want to play them in the final. It’s a totally different pressure. Much better to play them in the semifinal rather than in the finals.”

Kuldeep also told how the team faced some hardships after the loss in the Border Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, where India was plastered by the Aussies at their home. 

“We lost the series against Australia, and there was a lot of media attention, and the BCCI got strict as well,” the Kanpur-born said. 

“You have to be on your toes every series, and that’s how it works here in India. You can’t take your place in the team for granted, because there are so many players coming up.”

By defeating Australia in the semifinal and then New Zealand in the final, India lifted the Champions Trophy once again, after 2013.