India’s Dominant Six-Wicket Victory over Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Triggers Strong Reactions in Pakistani Media
In a commanding six-wicket victory over Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, India’s Virat Kohli proved to be theunsung hero, guiding his team to a comfortable win and leaving Pakistan’s title defense in jeopardy. The match, which took place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on February 23, 2025, saw Kohli’s unbeaten century and a disciplined bowling attack restrict Pakistan to a modest total, making it difficult for them to set a competitive target.
Pakistani Media Hails Kohli’s Brilliance, Laments Pakistan’s Struggles
The Pakistani media was quick to acknowledge Kohli’s outstanding performance, with leading English daily Dawn headlining its match report as "Champions Trophy: Virat Does a Kohli, Powers India to Easy Win Over Pakistan." The publication noted that a target of 270+ would have given Pakistan a better fighting chance, highlighting their inability to set a competitive total.
Geo News also praised Kohli’s unbeaten 100, which guided India to victory, alongside Shreyas Iyer’s crucial 56-run knock. The Express Tribune, on the other hand, took a more somber tone, stating, "Champions Trophy: India Outclass Pakistan, Potentially Eliminating the Defending Champions."
India’s Disciplined Bowling and Kohli’s Unbeaten Century
Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first, managing only 241 runs in 49.4 overs, despite solid contributions from Saud Shakeel (62) and Mohammad Rizwan (46). However, India’s disciplined bowling attack, led by Kuldeep Yadav (3/43) and Hardik Pandya (2/31), restricted Pakistan from accelerating in the final overs.
Kohli, who played a match-winning 100 off 111 balls, cemented his reputation as Pakistan’s nemesis in crucial encounters. Shubman Gill (46) and Rohit Sharma (20) provided a steady start before Kohli took charge, guiding India to victory in 42.3 overs.
Pakistan’s Hopes Hang by a Thread
With this defeat, Pakistan now faces a do-or-die situation to keep its Champions Trophy campaign alive. Unless they can find form quickly, their title defense could come to an early end. Meanwhile, India’s clinical win has placed them at the top of Group A, making them strong contenders for the knockout stage.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Pakistan’s response and whether they can bounce back to avoid an early exit.
