![IND vs AUS [WATCH]: Virat Kohli breaks into Bhangra after India’s first breakthrough in Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal](https://i1.wp.com/crickettimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Virat-Kohli-breaks-into-Bhangra-after-Indias-first-breakthrough-in-Champions-Trophy-2025-semifinal.webp?ssl=1 "IND vs AUS [WATCH]: Virat Kohli breaks into Bhangra after India’s first breakthrough in Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal")
The semi-final conflict between India and Australia within the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on the Dubai Worldwide Stadium was already a high-stakes encounter, however Virat Kohli’s exuberant celebration after Cooper Connolly’s dismissal added a spark of leisure to the extraordinary recreation. Identified for his animated on-field presence, Kohli as soon as once more showcased his ardour, this time with an impromptu bhangra dance that went viral and left followers buzzing.
Essential early breakthrough of Cooper Connolly
The match started with Australia opting to bat first after successful the toss. Indian pacer Mohammed Shami, who had already troubled the Australian openers, delivered a vital breakthrough within the third over. Bowling a size supply outdoors off, Shami compelled Connolly into an tried lower shot. Nonetheless, Connolly solely managed a thick under-edge that fell in need of KL Rahul behind the stumps. Rahul dived ahead to finish a pointy catch.
Initially, umpire Richard Illingworth turned down India’s attraction, however Rohit Sharma instantly known as for a evaluation. The Extremely Edge expertise confirmed a transparent spike because the ball edged Connolly’s bat earlier than reaching Rahul’s gloves. The choice was overturned, and Connolly was despatched again to the pavilion for a nine-ball duck—a major second that gave India early momentum on this high-pressure recreation.
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Virat Kohli’s iconic dance celebration
As quickly because the third umpire confirmed Connolly’s dismissal, Kohli erupted in pleasure. What adopted was quintessential Kohli—a celebration filled with vitality and aptitude. The Indian star broke right into a spontaneous bhangra dance on the sector, an act that not solely displayed his pleasure but in addition showcased his distinctive approach of lifting staff morale.
This isn’t the primary time Kohli has celebrated in model. Over time, he has turn out to be synonymous with animated celebrations, whether or not it’s fist pumps, roars of triumph, or playful taunts directed at opponents. Nonetheless, his bhangra in Dubai added a cultural flavour to his celebratory repertoire and have become an immediate hit amongst cricket followers worldwide.
Right here’s the video:
The context behind Connolly’s struggles
Connolly’s inclusion in Australia’s taking part in XI got here as a part of two adjustments made for this semi-final match. He changed Matthew Quick on the high of the order however struggled to seek out rhythm towards Shami’s probing deliveries. Shami, relentless in his method, beat Connolly a number of occasions earlier than lastly inducing the sting that led to his dismissal.
Connolly’s early exit put Australia on the again foot in what was anticipated to be a tightly contested recreation. For India, this breakthrough set the tone for his or her aggressive bowling efficiency as they aimed to safe a spot within the last towards both South Africa or New Zealand.