By Indians Daily Sports Desk
March 4, 2025
India’s cricketing icon, Virat Kohli, delivered yet another masterclass in run-chases, scoring 84 off 98 balls in the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 against Australia at the Dubai International Stadium on Tuesday. His composed innings propelled India to a four-wicket victory, securing their place in the tournament final. The Men in Blue will now await the winner of the second semi-final between New Zealand and South Africa.
Kohli’s Milestone Moment
In the course of his innings, Kohli etched his name in cricketing history by becoming only the second batter to surpass 8,000 ODI runs in run-chases. He achieved this feat in just 159 innings, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar, who had reached the milestone in 210 innings. With 28 of his 51 ODI centuries coming in successful chases, Kohli reinforced his reputation as the ultimate ‘chase master.’
The 36-year-old also set a new benchmark for most half-centuries in ICC ODI tournaments, surpassing Tendulkar with his 24th fifty-plus score. Additionally, Kohli overtook Shikhar Dhawan to become India's highest run-scorer in Champions Trophy history.
A Tactical Chase Under Pressure
Chasing a target of 265, India suffered early setbacks, losing Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill cheaply to Australia’s disciplined bowling attack. However, Kohli, in partnership with Shreyas Iyer (45), steadied the innings with a crucial 91-run stand. Despite his fluent strokeplay, Kohli’s pursuit of acceleration cost him his wicket to Adam Zampa.
KL Rahul (42*) played a composed finishing role, while Hardik Pandya’s late flourish (28 off 24 balls) ensured India crossed the line with 11 balls to spare. Pandya’s back-to-back sixes off Zampa effectively sealed Australia’s fate and erased any lingering tension in the Dubai crowd.
India’s Bowling Effort Sets the Stage
Earlier, Australia, after opting to bat first, posted 264 before being bowled out. Steve Smith (79) and Alex Carey (61) anchored the innings, but India’s bowlers maintained control throughout. Mohammed Shami led the attack with three wickets, while Varun Chakaravarthy and Ravindra Jadeja contributed two scalps each.
India Eyes Third Consecutive Champions Trophy Title
With this victory, India has advanced to its third successive Champions Trophy final. Kohli’s heroics, coupled with a well-rounded team performance, have put them on the brink of another ICC title. Their final challenge now depends on the outcome of tomorrow’s semi-final between New Zealand and South Africa.
As Kohli continues to redefine ODI batting records, India marches forward, fueled by experience, resilience, and a hunger for silverware.
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