NEW DELHI: Virat Kohli on Sunday put up a batting masterclass as the chasemaster fired a superb unbeaten century against arch-rivals Pakistan in India’s clinical six-wicket win in the crucial Champions Trophy Group A fixture in Dubai on Sunday.
Raising a record-extending 51st ODI ton, Kohli got to the coveted three-figure mark off 111 balls as India hunted down 241 in 42.3 overs for their second group win.
Going through a rough patch, Kohli on Sunday looked in sublime touch throughout his incredible knock that was laced with 7 boundaries.
The ton was Kohli’s first in the format since his 117 that came against New Zealand in the 2023 World Cup in India in November.
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Bringing his A game against Pakistan, Kohli showcased tremendous grit and determination on his way to 100 not out.
This is now the 5th time Kohli has singlehandedly powered India to win against Pakistan while chasing in ODIs and T20Is combined.
183 in Mirpur – Kohli’s first major contribution in a successful chase against Pakistan came in 2012 when he scored an incredible 183 off just 148 balls in the Asia Cup game. India went on to win that match by six wickets.
78 not out in Colombo – In the 2012 edition of the T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, Kohli scored an unbeaten 78 as India demolished Pakistan by 8 wickets in the group fixture. After the bowlers limited Pakistan to 128, Kohli led the chase from the front as India chased down the target with 18 balls to spare.
55 not out in Kolkata – In the 2016 edition of the T20 World Cup in India, Kohli hit an unbeaten 55 to hand India a six-wicket win at the Eden Gardens. After India India bowlers fired in unison to stop Pakistan at 118 for 5, Kohli at No.3 scored a terrific fifty to take India home.
82 not out in Melbourne – In one of the most famous T20I matches ever played, Kohli hit a magnificent 82 to help India pip Pakistan in a thriller at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia in the T20 World Cup. The chase that went down to the wire, also saw Kohli hitting pacer Haris Rauf for consecutive sixes that completely changed the course of the game.
