Bowling-Batting Brilliance, Kohli's Stunning Century Leads India to 6-Wicket Victory Against Pakistan, Semifinal Spot Secured; Pakistan Faces Elimination Threat
Dubai, February 23, 2025: India, led by Rohit Sharma, secured a dominant 6-wicket victory against arch-rivals Pakistan, confirming their spot in the semifinals of the 2025 Champions Trophy. India's all-round performance proved too much for Pakistan, who were restricted to a modest total of 242 runs, a target that India easily chased down.
Pakistan were bowled out for 242 in their 50 overs. Indian bowlers Kuldeep Yadav claimed three wickets, while Hardik Pandya took two, including the crucial wicket of Pakistan's star batsman Babar Azam. Despite some resistance from Pakistan, India’s bowlers kept them on the back foot throughout.
India’s bowling attack successfully applied pressure from the start. While Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq provided some stability early on, their batting faltered under the pressure of India’s attack, and they quickly lost wickets. Pakistan's innings were restricted to 242, giving India an achievable target.
In India’s chase, Virat Kohli played a brilliant knock, remaining unbeaten on 100 runs, leading his team to victory. His stellar performance was crucial in ensuring India's comfortable win. Shreyas Iyer contributed a vital fifty, and good starts from Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma laid the foundation for the chase.
Following this loss, Pakistan now faces the threat of elimination after losing two consecutive matches. Having already suffered a 60-run defeat to New Zealand in their opening game, Pakistan now faces a difficult challenge to bounce back in their next match.
India's victory has ensured their place in the 2025 Champions Trophy semifinals, and they will look to maintain their strong form in their next match against New Zealand.
