This is What Virat Kohli Said After His Match-Winning Century Against Pakistan – Champions Trophy 2025
By smrati khare in 4 hours
India continued their dominant run in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, securing a six-wicket victory over Pakistan on February 23, 2025, in Dubai. The star of the show was Virat Kohli, whose unbeaten 100 off 111 balls* guided India to a comfortable chase. However, despite two back-to-back wins, India has not yet confirmed their semi-final spot and will need a strong performance in their final group-stage match against New Zealand on March 2.
Match Overview: Kohli Leads India to Victory
Pakistan Innings:
Scored 241 in 50 overs after electing to bat.
Top contributors: Saud Shakeel (62), Mohammad Rizwan (46), and Khushdil Shah (38).
Kuldeep Yadav (3/45) and Axar Patel (2/38) kept the opposition in check.
India’s Chase:
Virat Kohli remained unbeaten on 100 (111 balls), anchoring the innings.
Shubman Gill (56) and Shreyas Iyer (48) played crucial supporting roles.
India completed the chase in 42.3 overs, registering their second win in the tournament.
This is What Virat Kohli Said After the Match
On his approach and mindset:
“It feels good to bat in that manner in an important game. After Rohit fell, my job was clear—to control the middle overs and take on the pacers.”
On handling pressure in big games:
“I have a decent understanding of my game; it’s about keeping the outside noise away, taking care of my energy levels, and maintaining clarity.”
On team performance and partnerships:
“Shubman and Shreyas have been excellent. The team has played well, and we are focused on maintaining momentum.”
On India’s road ahead in the tournament:
“The tournament is far from over. We’ve done well, but the next game is equally important. We want to keep our momentum going.”
Kohli’s Record-Breaking Night
Fastest to 14,000 ODI Runs – Reached the milestone in 287 innings, breaking Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara’s records.
51st ODI Century – Further solidifying his reputation as a modern-day great.
Continued Dominance Over Pakistan – Another masterclass in an ICC tournament against their biggest rivals.
India’s Semi-Final Qualification Still Not Confirmed
Despite two back-to-back wins, India has not yet officially qualified for the semi-finals. Their final group-stage match against New Zealand on March 2 will be crucial in determining their fate.
India’s Qualification Scenarios:
If India beats New Zealand – They qualify for the semi-finals as group leaders.
If India loses to New Zealand – Their qualification will depend on Net Run Rate (NRR) and other match results.
Updated Group A Standings:
Team Matches Wins Losses Points NRR
India 2 2 0 4 +0.647
New Zealand 1 1 0 2 +1.200
Bangladesh 1 0 1 0 -0.408
Pakistan 2 0 2 0 -1.087
Next Match: IND vs NZ – March 2, 2025
India’s Focus Shifts to New Zealand Clash
With a semi-final berth still on the line, India will now focus on their next big challenge against New Zealand. Kohli’s form, along with the strong bowling attack, will be key to securing a place in the knockouts.
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