The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has reached its business end, with India, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa qualifying for the semifinals.

All four teams are former winners of the showpiece tournament and will be keen to add another ICC title to their trophy cabinet.

While India will face Australia in the first semi-final in Dubai on Tuesday (March 4), New Zealand and South Africa will square off in the second semi-final at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore a day later.

On the eve of their last-four clash, India skipper Rohit Sharma acknowledged Australia's strong history in ICC knockouts but emphasized that his team's focus remains on executing their plans effectively.

When asked whether facing Australia in the semi-final gives them 'extra motivation, given the Men in Blue's heartbreaking loss to the same opponent in the 2023 World Cup final, Rohit dismissed any external factors influencing India's approach.

"No, look, it's a great opposition to play against. All we had to do is what we've been thinking about last three games. And we have to approach that game in a similar fashion," Rohit said in the pre-match press conference.

"We understand the opposition and how they play and stuff like that. But I think the more and more we focus on what we need to do as a group, as a player, as a batting unit, as a bowling unit, that helps us a lot," he added.

The Indian captain also highlighted the challenges expected in a high-stake knockout fixture, recognizing Australia's resilience and ability to fight back.

"I said it, yes, but look, Australia have been such a great team over the years. So, we will expect some fight backs. We will expect some nervy times as well in the middle. But that is how the game is being played these days," Rohit remarked.

With a spot in the final at stake, both sides will be under immense pressure. However, Rohit reiterated that India's success will depend on their ability to stay focused on their own game.

"You're talking about semifinal. Obviously, the pressure will be on both teams to win that game. But I think it's important for us to just keep focusing on what we need to do, keep doing our things and keep doing those things right. And then result will come if we keep doing the things that we are supposed to," he concluded.

(With ANI Inputs)