Virat Kohli brought back his dominance in batting during India’s crucial 2025 ICC Champions Trophy match against arch-rivals Pakistan. Playing at the Dubai International Stadium, Kohli stepped in after captain Rohit Sharma’s early dismissal.
- Virat Kohli scored his 74th ODI fifty in a high-pressure chase.
- India chased 242 runs set by Pakistan.
- Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, and Hardik Pandya shined with the ball.
- Pakistan’s top scorers: Saud Shakeel (62), Mohammad Rizwan (46), Khushdil Shah (38).
- Gautam Gambhir’s tense reaction grabbed attention.
Kohli’s fifty came off 62 balls in the 27th over, smashing a brilliant shot over covers off Naseem Shah. The Dubai crowd erupted in applause as Kohli raised his bat in celebration. His teammates cheered from the dressing room, but coach Gautam Gambhir looked tense as the match became thrilling.
A run chase against 🇵🇰 in an ICC event? 𝗘𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗩𝗜𝗥𝗔𝗧 𝗞𝗢𝗛𝗟𝗜 😎
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 23, 2025
🔸 His 23rd 50+ score in ICC ODI events
🔸 His 4th 50+ score in an ICC ODI event vs PAK
A century loading? 👀#ChampionsTrophyOnJioStar 👉 #INDvPAK | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi,… pic.twitter.com/pMG3Y3WU4f
Pakistan, batting first, posted 241 runs. The innings was anchored by:
- Saud Shakeel – 62 runs off 76 balls.
- Mohammad Rizwan – A steady 46 in the middle overs.
- Khushdil Shah – A quick 38 at the death.
India’s bowling attack kept things tight. Kuldeep Yadav led with three wickets, supported by:
- Hardik Pandya – 2 wickets for 31 runs.
- Harshit Rana – 1 wicket for 30 runs.
India started poorly with Rohit Sharma getting out for 20 runs. But the innings stabilized as:
- Virat Kohli led the rescue act.
- Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer played key roles in the chase.
Kohli’s return to form was the highlight. His aggressive yet composed innings reminded fans of his masterclass in pressure situations. His reaction after reaching fifty showed his passion and determination.
| Team | Score | Top Scorer | Best Bowler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pakistan | 241/10 | Saud Shakeel (62) | Kuldeep Yadav (3 Wickets) |
| India | Chase in Progress | Virat Kohli (50*) | Hardik Pandya (2 Wickets) |
- Kohli’s return to form boosts India’s confidence in the Champions Trophy.
- The match intensified the historic India vs. Pakistan rivalry.
- Fans witnessed a high-voltage thriller at Dubai International Stadium.
Virat Kohli’s comeback fifty proved why he is one of the best ODI batsmen. His celebration was a statement of determination and skill. With India still chasing, the match promises more excitement ahead.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
