The much-anticipated clash between India and Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025 lived up to its billing, with India securing a convincing 6-wicket victory in Dubai. Led by a magnificent century from Virat Kohli, India comfortably chased down Pakistan’s total of 241 to continue their dominance in high-pressure encounters.
Pakistan’s Innings: Struggles and Resilience
After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Pakistan got off to a cautious start. The Indian pacers maintained tight lines, making run-scoring difficult. Babar Azam looked in good touch but fell for 23 (26), edging one to KL Rahul off Hardik Pandya’s bowling. Soon after, Imam-ul-Haq was run out for 10 (26) due to brilliant fielding from Axar Patel, leaving Pakistan at 47/2 in 9.2 overs.
The middle order showed some resistance, with Saud Shakeel anchoring the innings with a well-made 62 off 76 balls. He was dismissed by Hardik Pandya, with Axar Patel taking a sharp catch. Mohammad Rizwan contributed 46 off 77 balls before being bowled by Axar, further denting Pakistan’s hopes.
Khushdil Shah played a fighting knock of 38 off 39 balls, but wickets kept falling at regular intervals. Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya were the standout bowlers, picking crucial wickets at key moments. Pakistan was eventually bowled out for 241 in 49.4 overs, setting India a target of 242 for victory.
Bowling Highlights for India
- Hardik Pandya: 3 wickets
- Kuldeep Yadav: 2 wickets (completing 300 international wickets)
- Jadeja & Axar: Key breakthroughs
India’s Chase: Virat Kohli’s Masterclass
India’s chase began with Rohit Sharma taking the attack to the Pakistan bowlers. However, Shaheen Afridi dismissed him for 20 off 15 balls, breaking the opening partnership at 31/1 in 4.6 overs.
Shubman Gill played fluently but fell short of his fifty, bowled by Abrar Ahmed for 46 off 52 balls. Shreyas Iyer provided stability, smashing a massive 102-meter six before departing after a well-compiled 56 off 67 balls.
The star of the night was Virat Kohli, who once again proved why he is regarded as the greatest ODI batsman of this generation. He completed his 14,000th ODI run with a trademark cover drive, becoming the fastest to reach the milestone. He continued his dominance, scoring his 82nd international century, steering India toward victory.
India sealed the win in 42.3 overs, finishing at 244/4 to claim a 6-wicket victory.
Match Highlights
- Virat Kohli: 100* (Player of the Match)
- Shubman Gill: 46 (52)
- Shreyas Iyer: 56 (67)
- India’s Bowling: Hardik & Kuldeep shine
A Statement Win for India
With this victory, India continues their strong campaign in the Champions Trophy 2025, displaying their batting depth, disciplined bowling, and world-class fielding. Kohli’s brilliance, combined with a solid team effort, ensured a comfortable win over their arch-rivals.
As the tournament progresses, India looks poised for another deep run, with the team firing on all cylinders. The chase master has spoken once again, and India has delivered a statement win!
Also Read: Australia Clinches Thrilling Victory Over England in Champions Trophy 2025
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