Kohli Silences Doubters, Rizwan Sings His Praises
When it comes to Pakistan vs India, there’s never a dull moment. Whether it’s intense on-field battles, nail-biting finishes, or dramatic press conferences, this rivalry is cricket’s ultimate blockbuster. And in the latest chapter, Virat Kohli delivered a masterclass that left Pakistan, and perhaps the entire cricketing world, in awe.
While India cruised to victory, Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan stole the post-match limelight—not with excuses, but with an unexpected fanboy moment for Kohli. Let’s break down the match scorecard, key performances, and why Rizwan couldn’t stop talking about India’s star batter.
Match Scorecard: India vs Pakistan (Champions Trophy 2025)
| Team | Runs | Overs | Wickets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pakistan | 241 | 49.2 | All Out |
| India | 242 | 42.3 | 4 |
Key Batting Performances
| Player | Runs | Balls | Fours/Sixes |
| Virat Kohli (IND) | 100* | 111 | 7/0 |
| Shreyas Iyer (IND) | 56 | 67 | 5/1 |
| Babar Azam (PAK) | 63 | 78 | 6/0 |
| Mohammad Rizwan (PAK) | 47 | 55 | 4/1 |
Key Bowling Performances
| Player | Overs | Runs | Wickets |
| Jasprit Bumrah (IND) | 10 | 38 | 3 |
| Abrar Ahmed (PAK) | 10 | 28 | 1 |
| Mohammed Siraj (IND) | 9 | 42 | 2 |
| Shaheen Afridi (PAK) | 8 | 50 | 1 |
The Kohli Show: Century Under Pressure
Before this match, Kohli had been under fire, his form scrutinized, and his critics sharpening their pens. But when the stakes were highest, he roared back into form with an unbeaten 100 off 111 balls. Seven elegant boundaries, not a single six, and an innings that screamed control and composure.
From the moment he stepped onto the crease, Kohli played like a man on a mission. He respected Abrar Ahmed’s spin, punished Shaheen Afridi’s loose deliveries, and effortlessly rotated strike against Naseem Shah.
By the time the game was won, the only thing louder than the Indian fans was Mohammad Rizwan’s press conference tribute.
Mohammad Rizwan: Kohli’s Newest Fan?
Pakistan’s captain Mohammad Rizwan didn’t hold back his admiration for Kohli’s performance. At the post-match press conference, he stopped everything to address Kohli’s brilliance.
Rizwan’s Press Conference Highlights:
- On Kohli’s Form: “The whole world said he was out of form—but he did it in this big match.”
- On Kohli’s Fitness: “He must have worked so hard. Even at 36, his fitness is incredible!”
- On Trying to Dismiss Kohli: “We tried everything. He just kept getting runs.”
It was as if Rizwan had just watched a cricketing superhero movie, where Kohli played the invincible protagonist.
Shreyas Iyer: “We Could Have Won Earlier”
While Rizwan was busy praising Kohli, Shreyas Iyer had a different take. After scoring 56 off 67 balls, he believed India could have finished the match even faster.
“I think we could have won a bit earlier. It would have been a more convincing win.”
This raised a few eyebrows—winning by six wickets with more than seven overs to spare wasn’t convincing enough? Perhaps Iyer was just setting high standards for his team.
Pakistan’s Bowling: The Good, The Bad, and The Unfortunate
Abrar Ahmed was Pakistan’s most economical bowler, conceding just 28 runs in 10 overs and dismissing Shubman Gill with a beauty. But aside from him, the rest of the bowling attack struggled to contain India’s batters.
- Shaheen Afridi couldn’t generate his usual swing.
- Naseem Shah was erratic with his lengths.
- Haris Rauf was expensive, leaking boundaries.
Pakistan’s bowling, often their stronghold, crumbled under Kohli’s calm authority.
What’s Next? Pakistan’s Fate Hangs by a Thread
With back-to-back defeats, Pakistan’s Champions Trophy hopes now depend on Bangladesh. If the Tigers can pull off an upset against New Zealand in Rawalpindi, Pakistan might still have a chance to fight another day.
For India, this win cements their position as tournament favorites. With Kohli back in form and their bowling attack firing, they look well on course for another ICC trophy.
FAQs
India won by six wickets, scoring 242/4 in 42.3 overs while chasing Pakistan’s 241 all out.
Virat Kohli, for his unbeaten 100 off 111 balls.
Rizwan was full of praise, calling Kohli’s fitness level “incredible” and admitting Pakistan had no answers to his batting.
Pakistan’s fate now depends on Bangladesh beating New Zealand. If Bangladesh loses, Pakistan is eliminated.
Conclusion: A Classic India-Pakistan Encounter
The Pakistan National Cricket Team vs India National Cricket Team match scorecard tells a story of dominance, redemption, and admiration. Kohli’s century under pressure silenced critics, Rizwan’s tribute won hearts, and India’s march toward the title remains strong.
As for Pakistan? They must now pray for a Bangladesh miracle. Because in cricket, as in life, anything can happen.
Stay tuned for more thrilling encounters—because when India and Pakistan clash, the world watches. 🔥🏏
