Champions Trophy 2025: India’s clinical performance against Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy showcased their strength, with standout contributions from both bowlers and batsmen.
India’s bowlers set the tone early, with a disciplined effort that kept Pakistan on the back foot. Though Mohammed Shami struggled with control in his opening spell, Hardik Pandya delivered a superb six-over spell, including the crucial wicket of Babar Azam. The partnership between Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel was steady, as they stitched a century stand for the third wicket.
Virat Kohli at his absolute best as India make it two wins from two in the #ChampionsTrophy 🔥#PAKvIND ✍️: https://t.co/O9lMfFTkQy pic.twitter.com/naqYOw8hVw
— ICC (@ICC) February 23, 2025
However, the duo remained cautious against some tight bowling. Despite being dropped twice, they couldn’t capitalize on the opportunities. Pakistan’s innings faltered quickly as they lost three wickets in quick succession. Kuldeep Yadav’s brilliant spell in the final 10 overs, where he claimed three wickets, prevented Pakistan from accelerating and put India in control.
Chasing a modest total, Rohit Sharma started aggressively but was dismissed by a brilliant yorker from Shaheen Afridi. Shubman Gill then displayed great composure, initially being watchful before finding his rhythm with a series of stylish boundaries against the left-arm pacer. By the end of the first powerplay, India were cruising at 64/1.
Kohli Enters In Elite Names
Haris Rauf made a strong start, creating a few chances. Virat Kohli’s top edge fell short of third man, and Gill was dropped on 35 by Khushdil Shah at midwicket. However, Rauf’s second over went for 14 runs, as Kohli launched two gorgeous cover drives to bring up his 14,000 runs in ODI cricket. This milestone made Kohli only the third player in history to reach 14,000 ODI runs, joining the elite company of Sachin Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting.
The special moment arrived in the 13th over when Kohli struck a brilliant cover drive to the left of mid-off for a four, signaling his achievement. The knock also marked Kohli’s 23rd half-century in ICC ODI events, equaling Tendulkar’s record.
India’s dominant performance in all aspects of the game once again reaffirmed their prowess, with Kohli’s milestone adding a special touch to the victory over their arch-rivals.
Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Virat Kohli Joins Elite Club, Becomes 3rd Batter To Reach 14,000 ODI Runs!
