Dubai: India reaffirmed their dominance over arch-rivals Pakistan in ICC tournaments, securing a comprehensive six-wicket victory in the Champions Trophy 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Opting to bat first, Pakistan struggled to build a strong total, managing 241 runs in their allotted 50 overs. Saud Shakeel played a crucial knock of 62 runs, while Mohammad Rizwan contributed 46. However, India’s disciplined bowling attack, led by left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav (3/40), kept the Pakistani batting unit in check.
Chasing 242 for victory, India made light work of the target, reaching it in just 42.3 overs. Star batter Virat Kohli once again rose to the occasion, delivering a masterclass with an unbeaten 100, marking his 51st ODI century. Shreyas Iyer provided solid support with a composed 56, while Shubman Gill chipped in with 46 runs to keep the momentum going.
This victory not only puts India in a strong position to qualify for the semi-finals but also extends their unbeaten streak against Pakistan in ODIs since the 2017 Champions Trophy final. With this triumph, India remains undefeated in the tournament and looks set to be one of the top contenders for the title.
Pakistan, on the other hand, now faces the daunting prospect of elimination and will need a miraculous turnaround in their remaining fixtures to keep their hopes alive.
Cricket fans worldwide lauded Kohli’s stellar knock and India’s all-round performance, solidifying their dominance in the high-octane Indo-Pak clashes. The Champions Trophy 2025 continues to offer thrilling cricketing action as the race for the knockout stages intensifies.
