Related Articles
Dubai, 23 February 2025: India defeated Pakistan by six wickets at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday evening to secure their place in the semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy. This victory marked Pakistan’s second consecutive loss in the tournament after they were beaten by New Zealand in their opening match by 60 runs.
Pakistan’s Batting Struggles
After opting to bat first, Pakistan found themselves struggling against India’s bowling attack. The team was bowled out for 241 runs in 49.4 overs. Saud Shakeel, who came in at number three, was the top scorer for Pakistan with a steady 62 off 76 balls, which included five boundaries. Captain Mohammad Rizwan played a responsible knock of 46 runs off 108 balls, but he struggled to accelerate the innings, hitting just three fours.
Khushdil Shah (38) and lower-order contributions couldn’t help Pakistan build a substantial total, leaving them with a moderate score. Kuldeep Yadav (3-40) and Hardik Pandya (2-31) were the standout bowlers for India, restricting Pakistan to a below-par total.
India’s Chase: Kohli and Iyer Lead the Charge
India’s chase was built around an exceptional century from Virat Kohli. The star batter remained unbeaten at 100, guiding his team to a comfortable victory with 45 balls to spare. Kohli’s knock of 100 runs off 111 balls was adorned with seven boundaries, and his composed innings was crucial in taking India across the line.
Shreyas Iyer also played a pivotal role, contributing a solid 56 runs from 67 balls, which included five fours and a six. Shubman Gill provided additional support with a quick 46 runs off 52 balls, including seven boundaries. Their contributions ensured India’s chase was well within control.
Pakistan’s Bowling Efforts
Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, tried his best with the ball, taking 2 wickets for 74 runs. Abrar Ahmed and Khushdil Shah each claimed one wicket, but their efforts were not enough to prevent India from completing the chase.
Final Group Match for Pakistan
After this defeat, Pakistan will now look to bounce back in their final group match against Bangladesh, which will take place at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday, 27 February. Pakistan will need to win that game to keep their hopes of qualifying for the next stage alive.
Match Summary:
India beat Pakistan by six wickets
Pakistan Innings:
241 all out, 49.4 overs
- Saud Shakeel: 62 (76 balls, 5 fours)
- Mohammad Rizwan: 46 (108 balls, 3 fours)
- Khushdil Shah: 38
- Kuldeep Yadav: 3-40, Hardik Pandya: 2-31
India Innings:
244/4, 42.3 overs
- Virat Kohli: 100* (111 balls, 7 fours)
- Shreyas Iyer: 56 (67 balls, 5 fours, 1 six)
- Shubman Gill: 46 (52 balls, 7 fours)
- Shaheen Shah Afridi: 2-74
Player of the Match: Virat Kohli (India)
FAQs About India vs Pakistan ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Who won the India vs Pakistan ICC Champions Trophy match on 23 February 2025?
India won by six wickets.
What was the total score for Pakistan in their match against India?
Pakistan scored 241 all out in 49.4 overs.
Who was Pakistan’s top scorer in the match?
Saud Shakeel was Pakistan’s top scorer with 62 runs.
How many wickets did Kuldeep Yadav take against Pakistan?
Kuldeep Yadav took 3 wickets for 40 runs.
Who was the highest run-scorer for India in the match?
Virat Kohli scored an unbeaten 100 runs.
What was the target for India in the match?
India needed 242 runs to win.
Who contributed to India’s chase apart from Virat Kohli?
Shreyas Iyer (56) and Shubman Gill (46) were key contributors.
What is Pakistan’s next match in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
Pakistan will play Bangladesh on 27 February 2025.
Who were the notable bowlers for Pakistan in the match?
Shaheen Shah Afridi took 2 wickets, while Abrar Ahmed and Khushdil Shah took one each.
Where is the final group match for Pakistan being played?
The final group match will be held at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
This match once again showcased the depth and skill of India’s cricketing lineup, with Kohli leading from the front. Pakistan now faces a do-or-die situation in their next match to stay in contention for the semi-finals.
