'280+ could have changed the game': Steve Smith reflects on defeat against India

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Australia captain Steve Smith believes scoring over 280 could have changed the outcome after their four-wicket loss to India in the Champions Trophy semi-final. Despite Smith’s 73 and Labuschagne’s 61, Australia posted 264, which India chased down led by Kohli’s 84. With key bowlers injured, Australia’s bowling effort was commendable but fell short.

Australia faced a four-wicket defeat against India in the Champions Trophy semi-final, with captain Steve Smith suggesting a target above 280 could have changed the match outcome.

India successfully chased down 265, with Virat Kohli scoring 84, supported by KL Rahul’s unbeaten 42 and Hardik Pandya‘s quick 28 off 24 balls.

Australia, batting first, posted 264/10 in 49.3 overs, with Smith scoring 73 and Alex Carey making 61. Indian bowlers Mohammed Shami took three wickets, while Ravindra Jadeja and Varun Chakaravarthy claimed two each.

“I thought the bowlers did a really good job, they worked hard throughout, the spinners squeezed and took the game deep. It was a tricky wicket to start on batting, tough to rotate the strike, everyone did a really good job tonight. It played pretty similar throughout. Little bit of hold for the spinners, little bit of spin and a bit of skid. For the pacers, it was two-paced. We probably could have got a few more on. We lost a couple of wickets at crucial times.”

“If we got 280+, things would have been different. Felt like we were one wicket too many down at each stage of the game. The way we’ve come together. The bowling unit did a wonderful job, some of the batters stood up. We played exceptionally well against England. Some really good cricketers, they are going to get bigger and better.”

Australia performed admirably despite missing their premier fast bowlers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc due to injuries. Their inexperienced bowling attack, led by stand-in captain Smith, kept pressure on India until the end, though Kohli’s dismissal came late in the game.

India will face the winner between South Africa and New Zealand in the final scheduled for March 9 in Dubai.

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