In a thrilling Champions Trophy 2025 clash, Virat Kohli showcased his vintage brilliance, guiding India to a commanding six-wicket victory over Pakistan in Dubai. The 36-year-old batting maestro smashed his 51st ODI century, ensuring India comfortably chased down a target of 242 with 45 balls to spare. Kohli sealed the win in style, striking a four to bring up his hundred off 111 balls.

Despite late breakthroughs, Pakistan failed to turn the tide. Shaheen Afridi’s erratic wides complicated Kohli’s race against time to reach his milestone before the chase concluded. Kohli also celebrated surpassing 14,000 ODI runs, becoming the fastest Indian to achieve this feat, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar. His century partnership with Shreyas Iyer kept India steady after Shubman Gill’s dismissal.

Gill had earlier launched a fiery assault on Shaheen Afridi before being undone by Abrar Ahmed’s peach of a delivery. His aggressive start helped neutralize the early loss of Rohit Sharma, keeping India in firm control. Pakistan, meanwhile, struggled to capitalize on moments of promise. They rode on Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel’s century stand after early setbacks, but their progress was undone by India’s spin trio—Kuldeep Yadav (3/40), Axar Patel, and Hardik Pandya (2/31).

Pakistan’s middle order crumbled under pressure, with key wickets tumbling in quick succession. Axar’s sharp fielding sent Imam-ul-Haq packing, while Kuldeep and Hardik tightened the noose. Harshit Rana’s dropped catch briefly gave Rizwan a lifeline, but India struck back immediately. Khushdil Shah’s 39 provided late resistance, yet Pakistan were bundled out for 241 inside 50 overs.

India’s disciplined bowling effort, sharp fielding, and Kohli’s masterful chase reaffirmed their dominance. The defending champions struggled to accelerate, with dot balls mounting and boundaries drying up, leaving commentators perplexed. Meanwhile, India maintained relentless pressure, restricting Pakistan’s momentum.

The match also saw Rohit Sharma briefly leaving the field, with Shubman Gill stepping in as stand-in captain, showcasing composure in leading the team. Mohammed Shami provided an early injury scare, exiting after bowling just two overs, but India’s depth ensured the setback didn’t impact their control over the game.

Kohli’s stellar knock, India’s clinical execution, and Pakistan’s missed opportunities defined the contest, setting the tone for an exhilarating Champions Trophy campaign.