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immense popularity transcends borders, and it was evident once again during India’s high-stakes match against Pakistan in Dubai. Despite their team’s defeat, Pakistani fans in Islamabad were seen applauding and cheering as Kohli reached his century during a special screening of the game on February 23.
اسلام آباد میں موجود کرکٹ شائقین ویرات کوہلی کی سینچری پر خوشی مناتے ہوئے https://t.co/5KyXSQMhdh pic.twitter.com/51Uliy4GNm
— Muhammad Faizan Aslam Khan (@FaizanBinAslam1) February 23, 2025
Entering the match on the back of poor form with the beat, the 36-year-old silenced the critics with an unbeaten knock of 100 runs off 111 balls. The century was his 51st in the ODI format and helped India beat Pakistan by six wickets. The fact that Pakistani fans chose to celebrate Kohli’s brilliant hundred, showcased the true spirit of cricket especially after India’s refusal to travel host nation due to security concerns.
One of the Pakistani cricket fan asked the team to work on their skills, stating that only good wishes will not help. “Pakistan should work on its skills. We keep praying for us to win, but we are not working on our performance,”
#WATCH | Islamabad, Pakistan: On India’s victory over Pakistan in #ICCChampionsTrophy match, a Pakistani cricket fan says, “The performance was very poor even in fielding. They should undergo better training, and there should be some accountability for playing with the sentiments… pic.twitter.com/pqRaXWcee7
— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2025
India one step closer to semi-final spot
India’s bowlers played a crucial role in setting up the victory by restricting Pakistan to 241 runs. Kuldeep Yadav led the attack with three wickets, while Hardik Pandya chipped in with two, never allowing Pakistan’s batters to settle.
Chasing the target, India remained in control throughout. Shubman Gill provided a solid start, after which Kohli took charge with a masterful innings. Shreyas Iyer also played a vital supporting role, ensuring Pakistan had no chance of making a comeback.
Pakistan are now on the brink of elimination from the Champions Trophy 2025 after a defeat to India. Their fat now depends on New Zealand vs Bangladesh match which will be played on Monday.
