In a thrilling encounter at the Champions Trophy 2025, Virat Kohli once again proved why he is regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time, smashing his 51st ODI century to guide India to a commanding six-wicket victory over Pakistan. The highly anticipated clash saw the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team put up a clinical performance, chasing down Pakistan’s 242-run target with remarkable ease.
After winning the toss, India opted to bowl first, capitalizing on the conditions to put Pakistan on the back foot early. Indian pacers struck in quick succession, reducing Pakistan to 47/2 inside the first powerplay. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj were relentless with their line and length, ensuring the Pakistani top order failed to gain momentum.
However, a crucial 104-run partnership between Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan provided Pakistan with a much-needed recovery. Shakeel played a composed knock of 62, while Rizwan contributed 46 before both fell in quick succession. Their dismissals triggered a collapse, as the middle and lower order failed to capitalize on the foundation laid by the partnership.
The Indian bowling attack, led by Kuldeep Yadav (3/40), tightened the screws in the middle overs, restricting Pakistan’s scoring opportunities. Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja chipped in with key breakthroughs, ensuring Pakistan never managed to accelerate towards a competitive total. Eventually, they were bundled out for 241, a score that appeared below-par given India’s formidable batting lineup.
Chasing 242 under the lights in Dubai, India got off to a steady start with openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill setting the tone. While Rohit fell early, Gill played a fluent knock of 46 before being dismissed. Shreyas Iyer then took charge, stitching a crucial partnership with Kohli. Iyer’s well-paced half-century (54) provided stability to the innings, allowing Kohli to take control.
Kohli, as always in high-pressure games, showcased his class and composure. The former Indian captain constructed his innings brilliantly, finding gaps with precision and punishing loose deliveries. He reached his 51st ODI century in style, reaffirming his reputation as a chase master. His knock was a blend of elegance and aggression, guiding India to the target with overs to spare.
The finishing touches were provided by KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya, ensuring India crossed the line comfortably with six wickets in hand.
With this resounding victory, India not only gained a crucial win in the tournament but also sent a strong message to their rivals. Kohli’s scintillating form, coupled with a disciplined bowling attack, has strengthened India’s chances of lifting the Champions Trophy once again.
For Pakistan, the defeat serves as a reality check, highlighting the need for a stronger batting approach and more incisive bowling performances in the games ahead. As the tournament progresses, India will look to build on this momentum, while Pakistan will aim for a quick turnaround in their upcoming fixtures.