Champions Trophy 2025: ‘Shami saab, bahut ho gaya Travis Head ka kaam’ – Harbhajan Singh’s message to Mohammed Shami ahead of India vs Australia semifinal
As India and Australia prepare to face off in the semifinals of the 2025 Champions Trophy, there’s no shortage of intrigue and drama surrounding the clash of two Asian giants. Having won the 2023 ODI World Cup final, Australia are looking to continue their dominance, while India will be seeking to avenge their heartbreaking loss.
One man who has been a thorn in India’s side is Travis Head, the Australian left-hander who has consistently performed under pressure. His match-winning century in the World Cup final, his heroics in the World Test Championship decider, and his contributions in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy have all left a lasting impression.
The Challenge Ahead: Stopping Travis Head
Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has emphasized the importance of getting rid of Head early in the match. "Shami saab, bahut ho gaya Travis Head ka kaam, ab unko run nahi banane deni hai [Shami sahab, enough of Travis Head, he shouldn’t be allowed to score runs now]," Harbhajan said on Star Sports.
The Road to Success: Neutralizing Head’s Threat
Head’s exceptional form against India in ODIs underlines the threat he poses. In nine innings, he has accumulated 345 runs at an average of 43.12, including a century in the World Cup final. His aggressive approach at the top of the order makes him a game-changer, and Harbhajan believes neutralizing him is crucial.
Other Key Players to Watch
However, Harbhajan has also identified Glenn Maxwell and Josh Inglis as two other crucial players who could turn the game in an instant. "Their lower-order batters, Glenn Maxwell and Josh Inglis, are strong hitters and deal in sixes and fours," he pointed out. "They must not be allowed to score runs quickly."
Playing it Simple
As India faces the daunting task of taking on Australia, Harbhajan has urged the team to keep things simple. "The third one is simple — it’s a knockout match, and in a knockout match, one should not try too hard," he said. "You have to play in the same manner as you have been playing."
The Stage is Set
As the two cricketing giants clash once again, the battle between Shami and Head could set the tone for another epic encounter. Will India be able to contain Head’s threat, or will Head continue to weave his magic? The stage is set for another memorable match in the 2025 Champions Trophy.
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