SYDNEY: Australia’s star spinner Adam Zampa has admitted that he is not at his best during the 2025 Champions Trophy but remains confident in his ability to take crucial wickets in the upcoming semi-final against India on Tuesday.
Zampa has contributed to Australia’s progression to the last four with solid performances, including figures of 2-48 against Afghanistan in the washed-out group match and 2-64 in the five-wicket victory over England in Lahore. Despite not feeling at his peak, the veteran leg-spinner believes his ability to perform under pressure and claim important wickets remains intact.
“Personally, I don’t think I’m bowling quite at my best but I like to think the beauty about me, when I’m not quite at my best and not feeling that great out there, is my ability to still contribute and take those big wickets,” Zampa said.
The 31-year-old spinner is aware that his performance will be vital in the semi-final against India, who have excelled on spin-friendly tracks during the tournament. Zampa is working on improving his game ahead of the high-stakes clash in Dubai.
Australia’s squad arrived in Dubai on Saturday, although they were prepared to return to Pakistan for the second semi-final depending on the result of the India-New Zealand group match. With India defeating New Zealand by 44 runs on Sunday, Australia’s early move to Dubai proved to be a strategic decision.
South Africa, on the other hand, has been forced to travel back to Pakistan for their second semi-final clash against New Zealand.
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Zampa, while acknowledging the hectic travel schedule, remains optimistic. “It’s kind of nice to get here. We’ve got a great facility here at the ICC Academy, so yeah, the boys are feeling OK about it,” he said.
Additionally, Australia has made a change to their squad, bringing in all-rounder Cooper Connolly as a replacement for the injured Matt Short, who sustained a left quadriceps injury. Connolly, a left-arm spinner, will help cover for the loss of Short’s off-spin if selected for the match against India.
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