Virat Kohli reaffirmed his standing as a cricketing legend with an unbeaten century, steering India to a six-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan within the ICC Champions Trophy on Sunday. His 51st ODI century not solely secured India’s second consecutive win within the match but in addition introduced them nearer to a semi-final berth.
Chasing a goal of 242, India confronted an early setback with the dismissal of captain Rohit Sharma within the fifth over. Kohli then anchored the innings, forming essential partnerships with Shubman Gill (46) and Shreyas Iyer (56). His composed 100* off 111 balls guided India to a snug victory with 45 balls to spare.
This century marked a major milestone for Kohli, making him the third participant after Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara to surpass 14,000 runs in One Day Internationals, attaining the feat in fewer innings than each.
Reflecting on his efficiency, Kohli acknowledged, “It feels good to have the ability to again in that method in an vital recreation the place we wished to (successfully) seal our qualification into the semis.”
He added, “My job was fairly clear—to manage the center overs, to attempt to go after the seam bowlers and never take too many dangers in opposition to the spinners however maintain rotating strike.”
India’s subsequent match is in opposition to New Zealand on March 2, and Kohli welcomed the week-long break. “To be trustworthy, at 36, it is superb… I simply must put my ft up for 2 days,” he mentioned with a smile. “It takes quite a bit out of me now to be placing that form of effort on the sector, and I am simply grateful we have now a little bit of day without work.”
Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed confidence in Kohli’s talents, stating, “That’s what he’s identified for. Folks sitting contained in the dressing room should not shocked with what he has achieved.”
This victory solidifies India’s place within the match, bringing them nearer to securing a semi-final spot.