Dubai: It’s a script we have seen before. Virat Kohli, a high-pressure run chase, and a masterclass in controlled aggression. But every single time, we still go, Wow!
Against Australia in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final, Kohli produced yet another chase-defining knock, a sublime 84 off 98 balls, as India hunted down 264 in Dubai with clinical efficiency.
The Art of the Chase
The early loss of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill could have rattled any team. But not India—not with Kohli at the crease. He rebuilt alongside Shreyas Iyer (45 off 62), crafting a 91-run stand off 111 balls.
What set Kohli apart? Strike rotation. Precision. Composure.
While Iyer batted solidly, Kohli’s ability to find gaps and pick singles kept Australia on the back foot. Steve Smith’s spin-heavy attack in the middle overs was neutralized with smart placement and aggressive running.
Steady, Calculated, and Relentless
Even after Shreyas fell, Kohli remained unshaken. He partnered with Axar Patel (20 off 26), ensuring India stayed ahead of the rate. The anticipation for ODI century No. 52 was palpable as he entered the 80s, with chants of “Kohli, Kohli” echoing in the stands.
But then, the anti-climax—a mistimed shot off Adam Zampa—saw him caught at long-on. Silence followed. Kohli dragged himself off the field, knowing he had done his job but wishing he could have finished it himself.
The Winning Moment
Hardik Pandya’s quickfire 28 off 24 kept India on track before KL Rahul (42) sealed the deal with a six. India won by four wickets, securing their record fifth Champions Trophy final appearance (2000, 2002, 2013, 2017, 2025).
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)
It wasn’t the fairytale finish Kohli might have wanted, but the rest of the story? A masterpiece in the art of chasing.
