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February 23, 2025, Dubai, UAE. In a high-stakes encounter at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, India secured a decisive six-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan, driven by an unbeaten century from Virat Kohli. This triumph not only bolstered India's position in the tournament but also cast significant doubts over Pakistan's chances of advancing.

The Match

Pakistan, opting to bat first, posted a total of 241 runs before being bowled out in 49.4 overs. Saud Shakeel top-scored with 62, while captain Mohammad Rizwan contributed 46 runs. India's bowling attack, spearheaded by Kuldeep Yadav's 3 for 40, effectively contained Pakistan's batting lineup. In response, India chased down the target in 42.3 overs, thanks to Kohli's commanding 100* and supportive knocks from Shubman Gill (46) and Shreyas Iyer (56).

Kohli's Record-Breaking Performance

Virat Kohli's century marked his 51st in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and propelled him past the 14,000-run milestone, making him the fastest player to achieve this feat. His innings was characterized by strategic shot selection and composure under pressure, reaffirming his status as a linchpin in India's batting order.

Pakistan's Struggles Under Pressure

Despite a solid start, Pakistan's middle-order faltered, a recurring issue in high-pressure matches against India. Captain Mohammad Rizwan acknowledged that the team succumbed to pressure, leading to poor shot selection and missed opportunities to build on the initial momentum. This loss places Pakistan in a precarious position, with their progression in the tournament now dependent on the outcomes of other matches.

India's consecutive victories have virtually secured their spot in the semi-finals, showcasing a balanced team performance with both bat and ball. Conversely, Pakistan faces potential elimination, highlighting the need for introspection and addressing the psychological barriers that hinder their performance in high-stakes matches against India.

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