India confirms their spot in the semifinals of Champions Trophy 2025 with the comprehensive win over arch-rivalry. Virat Kohli 100* run lead India to 6 wicket win over Pakistan. Pakistan decided to bat first after winning the toss at Dubai International Stadium on Sunday 23 February 2025. In the absence of Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq and Babar Azam open the innings. Both of the openers provided a good start to the innings.
Babar Azam got out by Hardik Pandya in 9th over, Imam also got run-out in the very next over. Pakistan was 50 for 2 down in their first batting power play. Rizwan and Saud Shakeel played 11-20 overs manage only 27 runs. They start their innings with very slow rate but accelerate after 25 overs.
Rizwan got out on 46 playing 77 balls, on a very simple delivery by Axar Patel in 34th over. Saud (62) also dismissed by Hardik Pandya in the very nest over. After two set batters go to pavilion Pakistan once again lose momentum. Khushdil Shah provided late momentum to the game but that was too late. Khushdil got out on 38 in the very last over and Pakistan innings ends on 241 for all out in 49.4 overs.
While chasing a manageable total of 242, Sharma and Gill started well by putting pressure on Shaheen Shah and Naseem Shah. Shaheen stuck back by getting Rohit Sharma on 20 at the last delivery of fifth over. Gill (46) and Kohli built a good partnership and take the score board to 100 runs in 17 overs. Abrar Ahmed bowled Gill, delivering a beauty pitching on leg side and turns enough to hit top of the off stump.
Virat Kohli and Iyer lead the chase they keep rotating the strike and build some pressure on the Pakistani bowlers. Shreyas Iyer got out on well struck 56 runs on 67 balls hitting 1 six and 5 fours. Pakistan bowling attack couldn’t provide timely break-through throughout the innings. Virat Kohli hit a four to reach to his 51 ODI century and also win the match by 6 wickets.
With this comprehensive win India make their place in the semifinals of Champions Trophy 2025. Virat Kohli receives man of the match award on his excellent performance.
Amazing batting by King Kohli