Harbhajan urges Shami to dismiss Head early in CT semi-final
What's the story
Former Indian spinner, Harbhajan Singh, has stressed on Mohammed Shami getting rid of Travis Head early in the 2025 Champions Trophy semi-final.
The match, which will be played in Dubai on March 4, is a rematch of the 2023 ODI World Cup final, where Australia came out on top.
Head has been a constant thorn for India in high-pressure matches, including his match-winning century in the World Cup final and performances in the World Test Championship decider and Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Game plan
Shami's crucial role in India's strategy
Harbhajan emphasized how crucial Shami's role is in India's plan to defeat Australia.
"The first thing is to overcome the fear of Travis Head and get him out," he said on Star Sports.
He went on to urge Shami, "Shami saab, bahut ho gaya Travis Head ka kaam, ab unko runnahi banane dena hai [Shami sahab, enough of Travis Head, he shouldn't be allowed to score runs now]."
Stats
Head's impressive ODI record against India
Head's record against India in ODIs further underlines his potential threat.
In nine innings, he has scored 345 runs at an average of 43.12, including a century in the World Cup final.
His aggressive batting style makes him a major game-changer for Australia, emphasizing the need for Shami to dismiss him early on Tuesday.
Game changers
Harbhajan identifies other key Australian players
Harbhajan also named Glenn Maxwell and Josh Inglis as other important players who could turn the game around.
"Their lower-order batters, Glenn Maxwell and Josh Inglis, are strong hitters and deal in sixes and fours," he pointed out.
"They must not be allowed to score runs quickly." This further highlights Shami's importance in India's plan against Australia.
Strategy
Harbhajan advises Indian team to keep things simple
As India gear up for this high-stakes clash, Harbhajan advised the team to keep things simple.
"The third one is simple — it's a knockout match, and in a knockout match, one should not try too hard," he said.
"You have to play in the same manner as you have been playing."
This advice highlights the importance of staying composed under pressure in such crucial matches.