Australia Strengthens Spin Attack for Champions Trophy Semifinal Against India
Australia has included additional spin options in their playing XI for the Champions Trophy semifinal against India. Alongside Adam Zampa, Cooper Connolly and Tanveer Sangha have been added to tackle Dubai’s spin-friendly conditions.
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As Australia gears up to face India in the Champions Trophy semifinal in Dubai, Steve Smith’s team has made two significant changes to their playing XI—both aimed at strengthening their spin attack. Given Dubai’s spin-friendly conditions, Australia has brought in Cooper Connolly and Tanveer Sangha.
Connolly replaces injured opener Matthew Short, who was ruled out of the tournament following Australia’s rain-affected match against Afghanistan. Meanwhile, Sangha has been included in place of fast bowler Spencer Johnson, adding more variety to Australia’s bowling attack. Winning the toss, Steve Smith opted to bat first, extending India’s unfortunate streak of losing tosses to 14 consecutive matches.
The inclusion of two extra spinners has surprised many. Adam Zampa was already a key figure in their bowling attack, and with Connolly and Sangha joining, Australia now has a three-pronged spin unit to counter India’s formidable batting lineup.
Many expected Jake Fraser-McGurk to be a like-for-like replacement for the injured Matthew Short. However, Australia has chosen to reinforce their spin department instead.
Australia vs India – Playing XIs:
Australia: Cooper Connolly, Travis Head, Steven Smith (captain), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis (wicketkeeper), Alex Carey, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Tanveer Sangha.
India has also included spinners in their squad, featuring Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Varun Chakravarthy. The last time India played in Dubai, Varun Chakravarthy made an impressive Champions Trophy debut, taking a five-wicket haul against New Zealand.
With spin expected to play a crucial role in the semifinal, Australia hopes their decision to go all-in on spin will pay off as they aim for a spot in the final.