Kohli's Masterclass Leads India to Victory Over Pakistan in ICC Champions Trophy 2025

2025-03-02

India secured a commanding six-wicket victory over Pakistan in their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, with Virat Kohli delivering a masterclass innings to guide his team to the target. Kohli remained unbeaten on 100, his 51st ODI century, as India chased down Pakistan’s total of 241 with 7.3 overs to spare. The win all but guarantees India’s place in the semi-finals, while Pakistan’s hopes of progressing in the tournament hang by a thread.

Pakistan, opting to bat first, struggled to build momentum despite a 91-run partnership between Saud Shakeel (62) and Mohammad Rizwan (46). Kuldeep Yadav was the standout bowler for India, claiming 3-40, while Axar Patel and Hardik Pandya also contributed with crucial wickets. Pakistan’s innings faltered in the final overs, finishing at 241 with two balls remaining.

India’s chase began steadily, with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill laying a solid foundation. Gill’s 46 off 52 balls was cut short by a brilliant delivery from Abrar Ahmed, but Kohli and Shreyas Iyer (56) then took control, adding 114 runs for the third wicket. Kohli’s century, completed with a boundary through the covers, sealed the victory in style. His innings was a blend of patience and precision, as he navigated Pakistan’s bowling attack with ease.

Pakistan’s fielding lapses, including two dropped catches, proved costly, and their bowlers struggled to contain India’s batters. Abrar Ahmed was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with 1-28, but it was not enough to prevent India from cruising to victory.

Post-match, Kohli emphasised the importance of clarity and focus in high-pressure games, while India captain Rohit Sharma praised his team’s collective effort. Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan acknowledged his team’s shortcomings, particularly in fielding and shot selection, as they face an uphill battle to stay in the tournament.

India now sit comfortably at the top of Group A, while Pakistan’s fate depends on other results, including Bangladesh’s performance against New Zealand. For India, the victory reinforces their dominance over Pakistan in ODIs, extending their unbeaten streak to six matches since the 2017 Champions Trophy final.

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