Virat Kohli’s 51st ODI century was the defining moment of India’s comprehensive victory over Pakistan in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Known for his ability to rise to the occasion in crucial matches, Kohli once again demonstrated his brilliance, ensuring India posted a challenging total that Pakistan could never quite chase down.
The match had been billed as one of the most anticipated encounters of the tournament, given the rivalry between India and Pakistan. Pakistan, having won the toss, decided to field first, hoping to exploit the morning conditions. But as soon as Kohli arrived at the crease, it was clear that Pakistan’s bowlers would have their work cut out. At 47 for 2, India was under pressure, but Kohli’s calm demeanor and unwavering focus meant that India would soon regain control.
Kohli, renowned for his ability to adjust his game according to the situation, started his innings cautiously, playing each ball on its merit. With Pakistan’s pacers, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, in fine form, Kohli’s early strategy was to stay patient, take singles, and rotate the strike. However, as he grew in confidence, his elegant strokes started to flow freely. Cover drives, flicks off the legs, and impeccable timing on both the front and back foot ensured Kohli’s innings began to gather momentum.
He reached his half-century in what seemed like no time at all, but Kohli wasn’t just content with playing a steady knock. His quest for a century was on, and the boundary count began to rise as he took on Pakistan’s spinners and pacers alike. Kohli’s ability to maintain focus and adapt to the demands of the game was on full display. His footwork was impeccable, his balance was perfect, and he ensured that every ball was played with purpose. With his usual array of shots, Kohli started to shift gears, taking India’s total to a competitive one.
The 51st century arrived in the 43rd over of India’s innings, when Kohli’s perfect timing brought up a boundary off the Pakistani spinner. The crowd, both at the ground and across the world, erupted in applause, as this century took Kohli’s tally to an unprecedented 51 in One-Day Internationals. To achieve such a milestone against a team like Pakistan, in a high-pressure tournament like the Champions Trophy, added to the grandeur of the moment.
In his post-century celebrations, Kohli acknowledged the importance of the achievement but remained focused on his team’s success. “It’s always special to score a century, especially in such an important match. But cricket is a team game, and the team’s win matters most. I’m just glad I could contribute,” Kohli said in his post-match interview, staying true to his humble nature.
His innings of 118 runs provided the backbone of India’s score, helping India reach a total of 340 runs in their allotted 50 overs. With this total, the match was set up perfectly for India’s bowlers to make an impact. Kohli’s performance with the bat, though, remained the highlight of the innings — a reminder of his skill, discipline, and ability to perform when the team needed him the most.
In the second innings, India’s bowlers took full advantage of the platform Kohli had set. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami bowled with pinpoint accuracy, ensuring Pakistan never got the upper hand in their chase. Pakistan’s chase faltered early, and the required run rate quickly climbed, adding to the pressure. By the time the mid-overs arrived, India had already made inroads into the Pakistan batting lineup, and the game was all but over.
The Indian bowlers, led by Bumrah and Shami, continued to dominate. Pakistan’s middle and lower order had no answers, and India sealed a dominant win by 70 runs. It was a total team performance, but Kohli’s 51st century had set the tone for the victory.
Kohli’s form in the 2025 Champions Trophy has been exceptional, and this innings was a testament to his enduring class. Even as newer players rise through the ranks, Kohli continues to prove why he remains one of the world’s best. His 51st century was a milestone, but more importantly, it showed that he remains a force to be reckoned with, no matter the opposition or the occasion.
After the match, the cricketing world lavished praise on Kohli. Former cricketers and analysts were quick to point out the significance of the knock. “Kohli’s ability to play under pressure is unmatched. His 51st century was an innings built on composure, precision, and exceptional skill,” one commentator remarked.
Looking ahead to the remainder of the tournament, Kohli’s form will be crucial for India’s hopes of winning the 2025 Champions Trophy. His leadership and contribution with the bat will continue to be a key factor for the team’s success. India will be relying on him to continue his rich vein of form as they look to progress through the knockout stages and capture the coveted title.
For Indian cricket fans, Kohli’s 51st century against Pakistan was not just a remarkable personal achievement; it was a defining moment in the tournament. As the Champions Trophy progresses, all eyes will be on Kohli, the player who has given Indian fans countless moments of joy and excitement over the years. His performance in this match once again underlined why he is one of the finest cricketers to ever play the game.
