Virat Kohli once again proved his mettle on the biggest stage, smashing his 51st ODI century to lead India to a dominant victory over Pakistan in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Kohli’s legendary consistency and ability to perform under pressure were on full display as he guided India to a commanding total that Pakistan failed to chase down, with the Indian bowlers finishing the job in the second innings.
The clash between India and Pakistan in the Champions Trophy is always one of the most highly anticipated encounters in world cricket, and this edition was no different. The match, played in front of a packed stadium, brought together two cricketing giants who share a fierce rivalry. With the tournament reaching its crucial stages, both teams knew the importance of this game. Pakistan won the toss and opted to bowl, looking to take advantage of the early morning conditions.
India’s openers faced early challenges, with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill falling cheaply, leaving the team at 49 for 2. As the match hung in the balance, Virat Kohli entered the crease, and the atmosphere immediately shifted. With a reputation for taking charge in pressure situations, Kohli’s presence seemed to settle the nerves in the Indian camp. The weight of expectation rested on his shoulders, but Kohli, as always, was unfazed. His calm approach to the task at hand set the tone for the innings.
Pakistan’s fast bowlers, including the lethal Shaheen Afridi, were in good rhythm, and Kohli knew that the key to building a big score was patience. He began his innings cautiously, playing solidly through the early overs while allowing the ball to do its work. As the innings progressed, Kohli found his rhythm, moving easily between defense and attack. He rotated the strike regularly, ensuring that India’s innings remained on track.
Kohli’s elegance and precision were on full display, with well-timed shots all around the ground. Whether it was his trademark cover drives or the flicks off his pads, the Indian star looked at ease against all types of bowling. His ability to accelerate at just the right moments allowed him to shift gears when required. His half-century came in just over 50 balls, and it was clear that Kohli was in no mood to let Pakistan’s bowlers dictate terms.
As the game moved into the 40th over, Kohli’s 51st century came up, an achievement that only a select few in cricketing history have managed to achieve. His journey to 51 centuries in ODIs had been one of consistency and excellence, and reaching this milestone in a high-stakes match against Pakistan only added to the significance of the knock. The crowd erupted in appreciation as Kohli raised his bat to acknowledge the milestone, a moment that was nothing short of iconic.
Kohli’s century anchored India’s innings, and by the time he was dismissed for a well-made 118, India had put up a formidable total of 340/6 in their allotted 50 overs. Kohli’s innings had not only been crucial in stabilizing the team but also in providing the foundation for the lower order to build upon. His ability to find gaps in the field and score boundaries when needed kept the scoreboard ticking, and his impeccable shot selection ensured that India never lost control of the match.
The task ahead of Pakistan was clear – chase down a challenging total against a potent Indian bowling attack. India’s bowlers, led by the experienced duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, began the defense of the total with confidence. Bumrah’s precision with the yorker and Shami’s clever variations kept the Pakistan batsmen under pressure from the outset.
Pakistan’s chase was never in control. Babar Azam, the Pakistani captain, was dismissed early, and the wickets continued to fall at regular intervals. The required run rate climbed steadily, and India’s bowlers tightened the noose. Pakistan’s middle order could not get any partnerships going, and they found themselves chasing a mountain of runs with each passing over. With Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami in such clinical form, Pakistan’s chase was all but over by the 40th over.
Despite some resistance from Pakistan’s lower order, the match ended with India winning by 70 runs, a victory that was sealed by a brilliant team effort. Kohli’s 51st century had been the highlight of the day, and his contribution with the bat played a huge role in India’s comprehensive win.
In his post-match interview, Kohli spoke humbly about his achievement and the team’s performance. “A century is always a nice feeling, especially in a game like this. But I’m just happy we were able to win. Cricket is a team game, and everyone played their part today,” he said, reflecting his team-first mentality. Kohli’s leadership, both on and off the field, has been a key factor in India’s success in major tournaments over the years.
With this win, India secured vital points in the tournament, and the momentum was certainly in their favor. Kohli’s form continues to be a major positive for the team, and his leadership remains invaluable as India looks to secure their second Champions Trophy title. The 51st century was not just another feather in Kohli’s cap; it was a demonstration of his ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.
As for Pakistan, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow, but they will have to regroup quickly and focus on the next matches in the tournament. Their batting unit, which had looked strong on paper, will need to perform better in the upcoming games if they hope to make an impact in the Champions Trophy.
Kohli’s 51st century is yet another testament to his greatness as a cricketer. His consistency, hunger for runs, and ability to deliver in big moments have made him one of the finest players in the history of the game. As India marches forward in the 2025 Champions Trophy, Kohli’s influence will continue to be the driving force behind their pursuit of glory.