Virat Kohli’s Century Leads India to Victory Over Pakistan

In a thrilling encounter during the ICC Champions Trophy on February 23, 2025, Virat Kohli once again demonstrated his unparalleled prowess in high-pressure situations, leading India to a six-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in Dubai. Kohli’s masterful unbeaten 100 not only secured the win but also marked his 51st One Day International (ODI) century and his 82nd international century across all formats. This innings further solidified his reputation as one of the greatest chasers in cricket history.

Match Overview

Pakistan, opting to bat first after winning the toss, posted a total of 241 runs before being bowled out with just two deliveries remaining in their innings. The Pakistani innings was anchored by Saud Shakeel, who scored a commendable 62, and Mohammad Rizwan, contributing 46 runs. Despite their efforts, the Indian bowling attack, spearheaded by Kuldeep Yadav’s impressive figures of 3 for 40, managed to contain Pakistan’s batting lineup effectively. 

In response, India faced an initial setback with the early dismissal of captain Rohit Sharma, who was bowled by a superb yorker from Shaheen Shah Afridi in the fourth over. However, Shubman Gill’s elegant 46 and Shreyas Iyer’s steady 56 provided the necessary support to stabilize the innings. The stage was then set for Virat Kohli, who meticulously orchestrated the chase. His unbeaten 100, laced with seven boundaries, guided India to surpass the target comfortably in 42.3 overs, ensuring their second consecutive victory in Group A and virtually securing a spot in the semi-finals. 

Kohli’s Milestones

This century was particularly significant for Kohli, as it propelled him past the 14,000-run mark in ODIs, making him only the third batsman to achieve this feat, following legends Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara. Notably, Kohli reached this milestone faster than his predecessors, underscoring his consistency and dominance in the format. 

Moreover, this innings marked Kohli’s 51st ODI century, extending his record for the most centuries in the format. His ability to perform under pressure, especially against formidable opponents like Pakistan, has been a hallmark of his illustrious career. This century also brought his total international centuries to 82, inching him closer to Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 100 international centuries—a testament to his enduring excellence and commitment to the sport.

The Art of Chasing

Virat Kohli’s proficiency in run chases is legendary. His approach combines calculated aggression with impeccable timing, allowing him to pace the innings perfectly. In this match, Kohli showcased his trademark style, initially anchoring the innings and then accelerating as required. His shot selection was exquisite, and his ability to find gaps and rotate the strike kept the scoreboard ticking, reducing pressure on his partners.

Kohli’s mental fortitude in high-stakes matches is commendable. He thrives under pressure, often reserving his best performances for crucial encounters. This century against Pakistan is a prime example of his ability to rise to the occasion, guiding his team to victory with a composed and authoritative innings.

Impact on Team India

Kohli’s innings not only secured a vital win for India but also instilled confidence within the team. His leadership on the field, combined with his batting prowess, serves as an inspiration to both seasoned players and newcomers. The victory against Pakistan, a team known for its competitive spirit, boosts India’s morale and positions them favorably in the tournament.

The partnership between Kohli and Shreyas Iyer was instrumental in stabilizing the innings after early wickets. Their collaboration exemplified effective communication and understanding, essential components in building successful partnerships. Iyer’s 56 provided the perfect foil to Kohli’s aggression, ensuring that India remained on course during the chase.

Pakistan’s Performance

Despite the loss, Pakistan exhibited moments of brilliance. Saud Shakeel’s 62 and Mohammad Rizwan’s 46 were pivotal in setting a competitive total. However, the lack of substantial partnerships and the inability to capitalize on starts hindered their progress. The bowlers, particularly Shaheen Shah Afridi, showcased skill and tenacity, but the formidable Indian batting lineup proved challenging to contain.

This defeat places Pakistan in a precarious position in the tournament, with their progression now dependent on the outcomes of other matches. The team will need to regroup and address key areas, such as middle-order stability and death bowling, to enhance their performance in future games.

Conclusion

Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 100 against Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is a testament to his exceptional talent, resilience, and mastery in high-pressure situations. His innings not only secured a crucial victory for India but also reinforced his status as one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history. As Kohli continues to break records and set new benchmarks, cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly anticipate his future exploits on the field.

This match serves as a reminder of the intense and thrilling rivalry between India and Pakistan, highlighting the passion and excitement that cricket brings to fans across the globe.