Champions Trophy Semi Final Results

1st Semi Final: Australia vs England: The age old rivalry between two Ashes nations was expected to be a thrilling contest. But it proved out to be a converse, with Australia steam rolling England. First with the ball Aussies had England on the mat with 101 for6. But heroics from Bresnan and Wright helped England to a marginal total of 257. Well Ponting thought otherwise, who combined with Watson sent the English bowlers for a leather hunt. Both of them notching up aggressive centuries. Australia were back to their own ways of crushing the opponents brutally.

2nd Semi Final: New Zealand vs Pakistan: Pakistan starting the match as favorites could not live upto the tag. Batting first they merely managed 233, which included a 35 run last wicket partnership between young Aameer and Ajmal. New Zealand completely deserved the credit for their disciplined bowling. Mills, Bond, Butler and Vettori  were all very impressive. But New Zealand’s chase was not without any anxiety. At one stage New Zealand required 69 runs of 64 balls. Situation weaved spectacularly by the spin duo of Ajmal and Afridi.  But some silly fielding and ordinary bowling by the pacemen at this crucial juncture let Pakistan succumb under the pressure.