Key Points:
- India defeated Pakistan by six wickets in Dubai to secure a semi-final spot in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
- Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 100, his 51st ODI century, powered India to a comfortable win while chasing 241 runs.
- Pakistan, with two consecutive losses, is virtually out of the tournament and now depends on other results for a miracle.
- Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan praised Kohli’s fitness and discipline, calling him “unstoppable” in the match.
- India avenged their 2017 Champions Trophy final loss to Pakistan with this emphatic victory.
New Delhi: In a high-stakes encounter at the Dubai International Stadium, Team India delivered a commanding performance to defeat Pakistan by six wickets, booking their place in the semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The victory not only eliminated Pakistan from contention but also served as sweet revenge for India’s loss in the 2017 Champions Trophy final.
Kohli’s Masterclass Leads India to Victory
Virat Kohli was the hero of the match, scoring an unbeaten 100 off 111 balls. His innings, laced with seven boundaries, showcased his ability to thrive under pressure in big matches. Kohli’s century was his 51st in ODIs, further cementing his legacy as one of cricket’s greatest batters.
Chasing a modest target of 241 runs set by Pakistan, India reached the finish line comfortably in just 42.3 overs. Kohli’s knock was well-supported by Shreyas Iyer (56 off 67 balls), who added a crucial partnership with Kohli after early dismissals. Opener Shubman Gill also contributed with a solid 46 off 52 balls.
Pakistan’s Campaign All But Over
Pakistan’s hopes of advancing to the semi-finals were dashed after suffering their second consecutive defeat in Group A. Captain Mohammad Rizwan admitted that his team’s campaign is “almost over” and expressed disappointment over their performance.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Rizwan said, “We made mistakes in all departments batting, bowling, and fielding. We couldn’t take wickets in the middle overs, which cost us dearly.” He also acknowledged Kohli’s brilliance, stating, “He works so hard; it’s incredible to watch. We tried everything to get him out but failed.”
With only one league match remaining against Bangladesh, Pakistan now relies on improbable scenarios involving other teams’ results to have any chance of progressing.
India’s Bowling Unit Shines Again
Earlier in the match, India’s bowlers put up an impressive performance to restrict Pakistan to a below-par total of 241 runs. Left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav was the standout performer with figures of 3/40 in nine overs. Hardik Pandya and Harshit Rana chipped in with two wickets each, applying pressure throughout Pakistan’s innings.
Pakistan struggled to build momentum after losing early wickets. Captain Mohammad Rizwan (46) and Saud Shakeel (62) added a steady partnership of 104 runs for the third wicket but failed to accelerate during the middle overs. The Indian bowlers’ disciplined line and length ensured that no big partnerships could flourish.
Rizwan Praises Kohli’s Brilliance
While disappointed with his team’s performance, Rizwan couldn’t help but admire Virat Kohli’s masterful innings. “The whole world was saying he is out of form, but he made batting look so easy today,” Rizwan said. “His fitness and discipline are extraordinary.”
Rizwan also lamented Pakistan’s inability to capitalize on key moments during the game. “As a captain, I don’t like being in situations where our fate depends on others,” he added.
India Takes Sweet Revenge for 2017 Loss
This victory held special significance for India as it avenged their heartbreaking loss to Pakistan in the final of the 2017 Champions Trophy. The Indian team displayed an all-round performance this time around, ensuring there were no slip-ups against their arch-rivals.
With this win, India has secured its place at the top of Group A alongside New Zealand. Both teams are now favorites to advance to the semi-finals. India will face New Zealand on March 2 in their final group-stage match a clash that could determine who finishes as group leaders.
For Pakistan, their last league match against Bangladesh will be merely a formality unless other results miraculously go their way. However, with two back-to-back defeats against New Zealand and India, their chances of advancing are slim.
India’s dominant win over Pakistan not only secured their semi-final spot but also sent a strong message about their intent to claim the Champions Trophy title this year. With Virat Kohli back at his best and the bowling unit firing on all cylinders, Team India looks poised for greater glory as they march confidently into the knockout stages.
