Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes India's biggest challenge in the Champions Trophy semi-final will be dismissing Travis Head early. The Australian opener has troubled India repeatedly in ICC tournaments. Notably, he played a match-winning century in the 2023 ODI World Cup final, leading Australia to victory at a packed Narendra Modi Stadium. Moreover, he smashed a hundred in the World Test Championship final, once again helping Australia dominate India.

Australia Faces Setbacks but Remains Dangerous

However, Australia will enter the match without their top three pacers—Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc. Additionally, opener Matt Short’s injury has further weakened their squad. Despite these setbacks, India cannot afford to underestimate Head’s explosive batting.

Therefore, Manjrekar stressed the need to remove him quickly. He stated, "Somebody get Travis Head out, whoever that is. He is one guy that India will really want back in the dressing room very quickly. That is going to be the moment for me. Travis Head."

Smith Backs Head’s Big-Match Ability

Meanwhile, Australian captain Steve Smith acknowledged the pressure of a semi-final but expressed confidence in Head’s ability to perform in crucial matches. He said, "I mean, there's pressure every time you play in a big game."

Furthermore, he added, "But, as we know, Travis has stood up in many of those in the past. And, you know, he looked in great touch the other night against Afghanistan. I'm sure he's going to be looking to come out here and play the same way he's played for a long time, with good intent, good aggression."

Manjrekar Cautions India About Middle Overs

On the other hand, India dominated New Zealand using four spinners on a tricky pitch. As a result, they might once again opt for Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy in the playing XI.

Even so, Manjrekar warned that Glenn Maxwell could be a major threat in the middle overs. If Maxwell finds his rhythm, he could attack the spinners and shift the momentum in Australia’s favor.

He explained, "I think it's going to be the middle phase. I think with Maxwell and Kuldeep Yadav or a spinner—Varun Chakravarthy. That would be the biggest thing."

A High-Stakes Clash Awaits

Ultimately, India must focus on removing Head early and controlling the middle overs. Since both teams are eager to reach the final, every moment in this semi-final will be decisive.