India advanced to the semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2024 by securing the top spot in Group 1 during the Super 8s stage, after defeating Australia by 24 runs. This decisive match took place on June 24 at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in Gros Islet, St Lucia.

Australia’s captain, Mitchell Marsh, opted to bowl first after winning the toss. India faced an early setback when Virat Kohli was dismissed for a duck by Josh Hazlewood. However, Rohit Sharma countered aggressively, scoring a rapid half-century off just 19 balls, featuring 4 fours and 5 sixes. Contributions from Rishabh Pant (15 runs) and Suryakumar Yadav (31 runs off 16 balls) further bolstered the innings.

Sharma’s explosive 92 runs off 41 balls, including 7 fours and 8 sixes, set a strong foundation. In the death overs, Shivam Dube (28 runs) and Hardik Pandya (27* runs) added crucial runs, leading India to a total of 205/5 in their 20 overs.

In Australia’s chase, Travis Head spearheaded the effort with 76 runs off 43 balls, supported by Mitchell Marsh’s 37 runs. Glenn Maxwell chipped in with 20 runs. Despite a solid partnership between Head and Marsh, the Indian bowlers turned the tide. Arshdeep Singh claimed 3/37, and Kuldeep Yadav took 2/24, restricting Australia to 181/7 in 20 overs. Rohit Sharma was deservedly named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance.

Australia’s progression to the semi-finals now hinges on the outcome of the Afghanistan versus Bangladesh match. Meanwhile, India is set to face England in the semi-final at the Providence Stadium in Guyana on June 27. The cricket community celebrated India’s achievement and praised the team’s performance on social media.