
Virat Kohli has always been the backbone of India’s batting lineup. But after a lean patch, critics questioned his intent. His century against Pakistan in Dubai silenced the doubters. Was he selfish, or was he the leader India needed?
- Virat Kohli’s century came at a crucial time for India.
- He played an anchor role, ensuring stability.
- Critics questioned his strike rate, but his innings secured the win.
India lost Rohit Sharma early to Shaheen Afridi. The scoreboard read 28/1, and pressure mounted. Kohli walked in calmly, knowing the team needed him to bat long.
He first built a 69-run stand with Shubman Gill. Then, he guided Shreyas Iyer through a century partnership. Every run mattered as India chased 242 on a tricky Dubai pitch.
Many called Kohli’s 50 off 62 balls slow. But was it?
- The pitch was not easy for stroke play.
- Early wickets meant India needed a stable hand.
- Kohli absorbed pressure and rotated strike smartly.
His calculated approach kept India in the chase. Instead of reckless shots, he waited for the right opportunities.
India needed two runs to win. Kohli was on 96. With a classy drive, he reached his 100 off 111 balls*.
The crowd roared. The critics fell silent. India won, and Kohli had played the perfect captain’s knock.
Was Kohli Selfish?
Let’s analyze:
- He played for the team, not just personal records.
- His innings ensured India’s victory.
- Every run he scored drained Pakistan’s confidence.
A selfish player seeks personal milestones at the cost of the team. Kohli’s innings was selfless, proving that anchoring an innings is as vital as attacking.
Why Kohli’s Knock Was Special
- Game awareness: He understood the pitch and situation.
- Partnerships: He held India’s chase together.
- Finishing touch: He reached his century and secured victory simultaneously.
Kohli’s Key Stats from the Match
Runs | Balls | Strike Rate | 4s | 6s | Not Out? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
100 | 111 | 90.09 | 8 | 0 | Yes |
Legends are not made overnight. Kohli proved why he is India’s greatest chaser. His century was not about selfishness, but strategy. In the end, it was his composure, skill, and leadership that secured India’s win.
Check out the Champions Trophy Schedule, Champions Trophy Live Score, Champions Trophy Squads , Champions Trophy Stats Champions Trophy Tour, Champions Trophy Venues & Champions Trophy Latest News here!
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Matches
Pakistan vs New Zealand - 1st Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs India - 2nd Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs South Africa - 3rd Match, Group B | Australia vs England - 4th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs India - 5th Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs New Zealand - 6th Match, Group A | Australia vs South Africa - 7th Match, Group B | Afghanistan vs England - 8th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs Bangladesh - 9th Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs Australia - 10th Match, Group B | England vs South Africa - 11th Match, Group B | New Zealand vs India - 12th Match, Group A | TBA vs TBA, 1st Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, 2nd Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, Final |
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Teams
PAKISTAN | NEW ZEALAND | BANGLADESH | INDIA | AFGHANISTAN | SOUTH AFRICA | AUSTRALIA | ENGLAND