Champions Trophy Digest: Virat Kohli’s masterclass sinks Pakistan; New Zealand eye semifinals | Cricket News

Virat Kohli performs a shot in the course of the match in opposition to Pakistan in Dubai. (PTI Photo)

NEW DELHI: Star batter Virat Kohli produced a classic knock, scoring an unbeaten 100 to steer India to a dominant six-wicket victory over Pakistan within the ICC Champions Trophy. Kohli’s match-winning century pushed the defending champions Pakistan to the brink of elimination, leaving them reliant on Bangladesh to maintain their hopes alive.
Chasing 242, India misplaced Rohit Sharma (20) early to Shaheen Afridi, however a stable 69-run stand between Kohli and Shubman Gill (46) ensured stability. Kohli performed a measured innings, turning into solely the third participant to surpass 14,000 ODI runs, following legends Sachin Tendulkar (18,426) and Kumar Sangakkara (14,234). His 51st ODI century, reached in 111 balls, sealed the match with 45 balls to spare, propelling India to the highest of Group A with two wins in two video games.
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!
“My job was to control the middle overs and take on the pacers later,” Kohli mentioned post-match. “It’s about managing expectations, keeping my energy levels in check, and focusing on my game.”
New Zealand vs Bangladesh: A decisive conflict
With India just about sealing their semifinal spot, consideration now shifts to the essential New Zealand vs Bangladesh conflict on Monday. The Black Caps, who defeated Pakistan by 60 runs of their opener, will safe qualification with a win. Their sturdy internet run price (1.200) offers them an edge.
Bangladesh, reeling from a six-wicket loss to India, face a must-win state of affairs. Their internet run price (-0.408) leaves them in a weak place, and a defeat would knock them out. Bangladesh’s batting lineup, which struggled in opposition to India, should step up in opposition to New Zealand’s formidable tempo assault.
New Zealand, in the meantime, face a variety dilemma with Rachin Ravindra doubtlessly coming back from damage. The Kiwis will look to proceed their medical performances and keep away from any surprises, understanding that Bangladesh surprised them within the 2017 version to knock them out.
If New Zealand win, Pakistan might be eradicated, and the semifinalists from Group A might be confirmed. However, if Bangladesh triumph, the group will stay vast open, making for an intense closing spherical of matches.