10 Exciting Facts About the Upcoming India vs Australia ICC World Cup Semifinals in Sydney

The 2015 ICC World Cup brings about a significant matchup between India and Australia. This semifinal showdown promises to be a thrilling moment for cricket fans around the globe. Here are ten intriguing facts about what promises to be a historic match.

First Meeting in World Cup Semifinals

This match marks the first-ever meeting between India and Australia in the semifinals of a World Cup. Prior to this, they had encountered each other in the league stage, including the super-six quarter-final and the final.

Australia’s Dominance

Since 1975, when the first World Cup took place, there have been 10 meetings between the two sides. Australia holds a significant advantage with a 7-3 record against India.

Australia’s Perfect Record

Australia has never lost a World Cup semi-final. Their only draw in a semi-final match came against South Africa in 1999, with five straight victories in 1975, 1987, 1996, 2003, and 2007.

India’s Captain Dhoni’s Consistency

Ms. Dhoni, the captain of India, boasts an impeccable record in World Cup history. Whenever India has faced opponents in semi-finals, Ms. Dhoni has led them to victory, starting from the 2011 quarter-final.

Unbeaten India

In the current World Cup, India’s unbeaten streak stands at seven matches. Only one match was lost by Australia to New Zealand in the tournament, setting a stark contrast in their performance.

I buckle down, Jadeja’s Century

Ajay Jadeja is the sole Indian player who has scored a century against Australia in a World Cup match, adding another badge of honor to his name. Ricky Ponting, a veteran player, leads the team with 2 centuries.

Returning Legends from 2011

Players who appeared in the 2011 World Cup and are currently featured in the squad include Michael Clarke, Shane Watson, Brad Haddin, Mitchell Johnson, Ms. Dhoni, Virat Kohli, R. Ashwin, and Suresh Raina. This experience can work in favor of the current squad.

Sydney Debut for India

This will be India’s first-ever appearance in Sydney for the current World Cup. On the other hand, Australia has made a second visit, following their victory over Sri Lanka in the group stage.

Consecutive Final Appearances for India

If India manages to win this match, it will mark their second consecutive final appearance, following their 1983 and 2011 victories. Previous appearances include 1983 (won), 2003 (lost), and 2011 (won).

Continuation in the Final

In a rare scenario where the match is abandoned, India would progress to the final, as they have finished higher than Pool B No. 1 in the group stage. Australia, in contrast, were ranked second in Pool A.