Dubai: Virat Kohli once again proved why he is India’s ultimate chase master, guiding the team to a four-wicket victory over Australia in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final. His composed 84 off 98 balls set the stage for India’s chase of 265, securing their spot in the final.
India found themselves in early trouble at 43/2, losing both openers. But Kohli, in partnership with Shreyas Iyer (45), steadied the innings, stitching together a crucial 91-run stand. Even after his dismissal in the 80s, the chase remained in control as KL Rahul (42) finished the job in the 49th over.
Kohli on His Knock: “Composure Was Key”
Speaking after the match, Kohli reflected on his approach:
“I think my timing and composure at the crease were key. I wasn’t feeling desperate; I was happy knocking ones around. That’s when you know you’re playing well. It’s about stringing partnerships and settling the nerves. Against Pakistan, and today that was the most pleasing factor.”
He emphasized the importance of understanding conditions and playing accordingly:
“The pitch dictates how the game needs to be played. I focus on partnerships and building a chase. My only effort today was to string enough partnerships. When I got out, the plan was to get 20 more and then finish it off in a couple of overs.”
Kohli on Chasing Under Pressure
Kohli also spoke about his mindset in pressure chases:
“This game is about handling pressure, especially in big matches. If you go deep into the innings with wickets in hand, the opposition usually gives in. Even if it comes down to needing six an over, I’m not bothered as long as we have six or seven wickets in hand. Two set batters can turn the game around.”
India will now face the winner of South Africa vs New Zealand in the final on March 9.
Brief Scores:
🇮🇳 India 267/6 in 48.1 overs (Virat Kohli 84, KL Rahul 42*; Nathan Ellis 2/49, Adam Zampa 2/60)
🇦🇺 Australia 264 all out in 49.3 overs (Steve Smith 73, Alex Carey 61; Mohd. Shami 3/48, Varun Chakravarthy 2/49)
With another chase masterclass, Kohli has once again underlined his legacy as India’s go-to man in high-pressure matches. Now, one more step remains—the ICC Champions Trophy final.
