India secured a commanding six-wicket victory over Pakistan in the much-anticipated Champions Trophy encounter at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. India secured a commanding six-wicket victory over Pakistan in the much-anticipated Champions Trophy encounter. India increased its ICC tournament superiority over Pakistan, securing their 18th win in 22 encounters in international events.
Kohli’s innings was a blend of calculated risk and exquisite stroke play, with his trademark cover drive featuring prominently. Speaking after the match, he admitted that the shot has been both a strength and a weakness, often putting him in a “Catch-22” situation. However, he backed his instincts on the big stage, a decision that paid off handsomely.
India’s Clinical Performance Stifles Pakistan
Choosing to bat first, Pakistan struggled against India’s well-disciplined bowling unit. Pakistan managed 241, their lowest total against India in an ICC event since 2014. Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan added a 104-run partnership, but the run rate was slow throughout.
India’s bowling unit, spearheaded by Kuldeep Yadav and Hardik Pandya, never allowed Pakistan to build momentum. Kuldeep maintained his record against Pakistan, taking three crucial wickets, including middle-order batsmen who were unable to convert their starts into substantial scores. Pandya made key contributions, sending Babar Azam back early and keeping the pressure on throughout.
Kohli Sets Record With 14,000 ODI Runs
In the chase of 241, India never seemed to be in trouble, courtesy of a good start by Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. Kohli held the fort together, balancing caution with aggression. His innings took him past the 14,000-run mark in ODIs, becoming the third-quickest batter to reach the milestone in just 287 innings, behind only Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara.
With 28 of his 51 ODI centuries coming in run-chases, Kohli once again proved his prowess under pressure. His style of maximizing efficiency while minimizing risks was at full display as he ended the game in style, scoring the winning runs.
India’s Dominating ICC Record Against Pakistan Goes On
The win increased India’s established supremacy over Pakistan in ICC competitions, reiterating their tactical and mental superiority. Even losing the toss, India dominated Pakistan in all aspects, making another one-sided encounter in cricket’s most intense rivalry.
This emphatic win sends a strong message for the rest of India’s Champions Trophy campaign, while Pakistan faces an uphill battle to stay in contention.
Edited By- Anusmriti Ganguly
