Virat Kohli’s masterful unbeaten century powered India to a six-wicket victory over Pakistan in their Group A clash at the Dubai International Stadium, securing India’s spot in the 2025 Champions Trophy semi-finals.
Chasing 242, Kohli anchored the innings with a brilliant 100* off 114 balls, while Shreyas Iyer played a steady 56, helping India finish the chase in 42.3 overs. With this loss, Pakistan faces elimination, and a New Zealand win against Bangladesh on Monday would officially end their campaign.
Electing to bat, Pakistan managed 241 all out in 49.4 overs, with Saud Shakeel scoring 62 and Mohammad Rizwan adding 46. However, the middle order collapsed as India’s bowlers tightened their grip.
Kuldeep Yadav led with 3-40, while Hardik Pandya’s 2-31 included the crucial wicket of Babar Azam (12). Contributions from Harshit Rana, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel kept Pakistan under pressure.
India struck early when Hardik forced Babar to edge behind to KL Rahul. Imam-ul-Haq struggled for fluency and was run out for 10 after Axar Patel’s sharp direct hit.
Despite a 104-run stand between Rizwan and Shakeel, Axar bowled Rizwan for 46, while Hardik dismissed Shakeel with a slower short ball. Kuldeep cleaned up the tail, taking three wickets in quick succession.
India’s chase started cautiously after losing Rohit Sharma early, but Kohli and Iyer combined for a crucial partnership. Kohli played patiently before accelerating, reaching his century with a single through mid-wicket.
Shaheen Afridi (2-74) tried to break India’s rhythm but couldn’t contain Kohli’s brilliance. Shreyas Iyer’s composed 56 ensured there were no stumbles as India comfortably crossed the finish line.
With this win, India becomes the first team to enter the semi-finals. Pakistan, after two consecutive losses, is on the brink of elimination—a fate that will be sealed if New Zealand defeats Bangladesh in their upcoming clash.
Brief Scores:
Pakistan: 241 all out in 49.4 overs (Saud Shakeel 62, Mohammad Rizwan 46; Kuldeep Yadav 3-40, Hardik Pandya 2-31)
India: 244/4 in 42.3 overs (Virat Kohli 100*, Shreyas Iyer 56; Shaheen Afridi 2-74)
Result: India won by 6 wickets.
