Steve Smith holds Kohli, reacts emotionally after KL Rahul’s winning six
Virat Kohli and Steve Smith showed great sportsmanship after India’s four-wicket win over Australia in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final. Their mutual admiration became the highlight of post-match moments, with a video of their exchange going viral.
As KL Rahul smashed the winning six off Glenn Maxwell, the Indian camp erupted in celebration. Rahul roared in excitement, and Virat Kohli hugged Rohit Sharma. Amid the jubilation, Kohli and Smith shook hands and shared a heartfelt hug. Smith then placed his hand on Kohli’s chest in a rare gesture, possibly acknowledging Kohli’s brilliance in the chase.
Kohli also hugged Glenn Maxwell, his former Royal Challengers Bengaluru teammate, before exchanging greetings with other players. Both Kohli and Smith delivered strong performances, but Kohli’s knock of 84 off 98 balls proved decisive. He won Player of the Match as India successfully chased 265 with 11 balls to spare.
India now awaits the winner of the South Africa vs. New Zealand semi-final at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. The team eyes a third consecutive Champions Trophy title after winning in 2013 and finishing as runners-up in 2017.
Earlier, Australia won the toss and chose to bat first. Mohammed Shami led India’s bowling attack with three wickets, while Varun Chakaravarthy and Ravindra Jadeja took two each. Australia managed 264 in 49.3 overs, with Steve Smith scoring 79 and Alex Carey adding 61.
India’s chase remained steady despite some early pressure. Kohli’s 84, Shreyas Iyer’s 45, and KL Rahul’s unbeaten 42 ensured a smooth finish. The team now gears up for the final, aiming to lift another ICC trophy.
