In a high-stakes encounter during the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, Virat Kohli once again showcased his unparalleled prowess in run chases, leading India to a decisive six-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in Dubai. Kohli’s unbeaten 100 off 111 balls not only secured the win but also saw him surpass the 14,000-run milestone in One Day Internationals (ODIs), making him only the third player in history to achieve this feat. His performance drew widespread acclaim, notably from former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, who praised Kohli’s ability to excel in high-pressure situations.
Kohli’s Chasing Masterclass
Chasing a target of 242 set by Pakistan, India faced early setbacks with the loss of both openers within the first ten overs. Amidst the pressure, Kohli anchored the innings with composure and precision. Forming a crucial 120-run partnership with Shreyas Iyer, who contributed a valuable 56, Kohli ensured the stability of the chase. His innings was characterized by strategic shot selection and the ability to find gaps, effectively neutralizing Pakistan’s bowling attack.
Ponting’s High Praise
Ricky Ponting, renowned for his own match-winning capabilities, commended Kohli’s performance, emphasizing the significance of delivering in pivotal matches. Speaking on The ICC Review, Ponting stated, “I’ve always said big games equal big names. You need your big names to stand up in those big moments, and no bigger game for India than a game against Pakistan.” He further highlighted Kohli’s consistency in high-pressure games, drawing parallels to his previous match-winning innings against Pakistan in the 2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Ponting added, “He stood up against the team that he would probably steel himself the most to play against. And once again, it was Kohli to get the job done.”
Milestones and Records
Kohli’s century marked his 51st in ODIs, reinforcing his position among cricket’s elite batsmen. Surpassing the 14,000-run mark, he joined the ranks of Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara, who previously achieved this milestone. This innings also saw Kohli overtake Ponting on the all-time international run-scorers list, now trailing only Tendulkar and Sangakkara. Reflecting on this achievement, Ponting remarked, “With someone like Virat, you never write him off. Now that he’s gone past me and only two ahead of him, I am sure he wants to give himself the best chance to be remembered as the all-time leading run-scorer in the game.”
The Road Ahead
Kohli’s form has been a focal point leading up to the Champions Trophy, especially after a challenging series in Australia. However, his performance against Pakistan underscores his resilience and ability to rise to the occasion. Former Indian women’s team captain Anjum Chopra noted, “There is still a lot to play for. In every match, his target can be to score a century. If he scores a century, then his next target is to score a double hundred. There is a lot of target for him.”
As the tournament progresses, Kohli’s leadership and batting will be pivotal to India’s success. His knack for performing under pressure not only boosts team morale but also cements his legacy as one of the game’s greatest chasers. The cricketing fraternity and fans worldwide eagerly anticipate more such masterclasses from Kohli as he continues to redefine excellence in the sport.
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