Synopsis
In a thrilling match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Virat Kohli's exceptional performance led India to a six-wicket victory over Pakistan. His 51st ODI century, along with significant contributions from teammates, ensured India's place in the semi-finals, while cricket legends praised his remarkable talent and resilience.Key Takeaways
- Virat Kohli scored his 51st ODI century.
- India secured a six-wicket win over Pakistan.
- The victory ensured India's spot in the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy.
- Strong contributions came from Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill.
- India's bowlers played a critical role in restricting Pakistan's scoring.
Dubai, Feb 23 (NationPress) For nearly two decades, Virat Kohli has proven to be India’s most reliable batsman in high-pressure situations. On Sunday, King Kohli once again dominated Pakistan, steering India to a remarkable six-wicket triumph over their longstanding rivals in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Group A matchup at Dubai International Stadium.
Kohli’s 51st ODI century was instrumental in securing India’s semi-final spot in the 2025 Champions Trophy, prompting former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh to express his admiration on social media.
“Come the hour come the man! King Kohli at his finest @imVkohli #goat great performance by @ShreyasIyer15 @ShubmanGill; it felt like a one-sided contest thanks to our superb bowling unit, especially @hardikpandya7 and @imkuldeep18 #IndiaVsPak #ChampionsTrophy2025,” Yuvraj posted on X.
Cricketing icon Sachin Tendulkar remarked, "A perfect conclusion to the most anticipated match. A true knockout! Team India was exceptional with impressive innings from @imVkohli, @ShreyasIyer15, and @ShubmanGill, along with outstanding bowling from @imkuldeep18 and @hardikpandya7!"
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif commented, "On a challenging pitch, Virat Kohli delivers once more... he enjoys batting against Pakistan... a phenomenal player and a great ambassador. #INDvsPAK."
"I predicted that Virat would score a century today and that India would win @imVkohli. Hindustan Zindabaad," tweeted Harbhajan Singh.
In pursuit of 242 runs, Kohli spearheaded the innings with seven boundaries in a stellar performance, forming a pivotal 114-run partnership with Shreyas Iyer, who contributed 56 runs off 67 balls, leading India to victory with 45 balls remaining. Vice-captain Shubman Gill maintained his excellent form, following a century against Bangladesh, by scoring 46 runs and setting the stage perfectly for the Indian batsmen.
Former cricketer Wasim Jaffer tweeted, "Cometh the hour, cometh the King! Well played @imVkohli #INDvPAK #ChampionsTrophy."
Earlier in the match, Pakistan struggled to find momentum, despite a 104-run partnership between Saud Shakeel (62) and Mohammad Rizwan (46). From a comfortable 151-2, they suffered a collapse, losing wickets rapidly. Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, and Harshit Rana provided key breakthroughs, while Kuldeep Yadav showcased his skills in the death overs, dismissing Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Afridi, and Naseem Shah in quick succession.
Pakistan’s total of 241 was below par on a pitch that slowed as the match progressed, and India’s efficient chase led to their rivals facing their second consecutive defeat, putting them on the edge of elimination.
