Dillhi Once again, Virat Kohli has proven that district-level players can shine on the big stage. On Sunday, during the ICC Champions Trophy match against Pakistan, Kohli not only achieved a much-anticipated century but also broke multiple records, leading India to a spectacular victory. The Indian team dominated Pakistan with a six-wicket win, securing their spot in the semifinals. On the other hand, defending champions and hosts Pakistan, after consecutive losses, now face the risk of an early exit from the tournament.
With patience and composure, Kohli guided India to victory, receiving valuable support from Shubman Gill (46 runs) and Shreyas Iyer (56 runs). Although a 242-run chase seemed challenging on Dubai’s tricky pitch, Kohli’s outstanding innings made it look easy. India reached 244 runs for the loss of just four wickets with 45 balls to spare. This was Kohli’s 51st ODI century, taking his overall international century count to 82. Interestingly, this was also his first-ever century in an ICC Champions Trophy tournament. Additionally, Kohli set another record by becoming India’s top ODI fielder with 158 catches. He also became the third player in the world to reach 14,000 ODI runs, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar in the fastest time. Kohli was named Player of the Match for his performance.
With this victory, India avenged their 2017 Champions Trophy final loss to Pakistan. The head-to-head record between the two nations in this tournament is now tied at 3-3.
Despite Pakistan’s bowlers putting up a fight, Kohli’s much-awaited century overshadowed the entire match. His ability to accumulate runs efficiently and hit timely boundaries brought joy to Indian fans. Kohli scored an unbeaten 100* off 111 balls, hitting just seven fours, showcasing his fitness and composure.
India, having lost the toss, was sent to field first. The opening over was disappointing, as Mohammed Shami bowled 11 deliveries, including five wides, but conceded only six runs. Pakistan’s openers, Imam-ul-Haq and Babar Azam, started cautiously but were dismissed early during the powerplay. In the ninth over, Hardik Pandya tempted Babar with an off-cutter, which he tried to drive but edged to KL Rahul behind the stumps. Babar managed 23 runs off 26 balls. In the next over, Imam-ul-Haq (10 runs) attempted a quick single but got caught out on a misjudged shot.
India’s dominant performance and Kohli’s brilliance ensured a comfortable path to the semifinals, while Pakistan now struggles to stay in the competition.
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