Image: For the sake of India's success in the Champions Trophy, fans performed havan / © Hindustan Times
Ahead of the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final between India and Australia, fans in Varanasi have turned to spirituality, organizing havan and puja rituals to pray for Team India’s success. Cricket in India is more than just a sport — it’s a passion, and supporters are leaving no stone unturned as the team prepares for the crucial clash on March 4 in Dubai.
Historically, India has struggled against Australia in ICC knockout matches, losing three of their last four encounters, including the 2023 World Cup final and the 2015 World Cup semi-final. Despite dominating Australia in recent bilateral series, these past defeats weigh heavily on Indian fans.
A viral video on the YouTube channel Northeast Live shows supporters holding posters of Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya while offering prayers. India’s only knockout victories over Australia in major ICC tournaments came in the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2017 Champions Trophy.
As Rohit Sharma’s men gear up for the challenge, the team boasts top performers like Virat Kohli, who is in sublime form, and rising stars like Shubman Gill. With high emotions and expectations, fans hope their prayers can help India break the jinx and secure a spot in the final.