Team India continued their dominant run in the Champions Trophy with a commanding six-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in a Group A clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. Chasing a target of 242, India reached 244/4 in just 42.3 overs, sealing the win with 7.3 overs to spare. This victory almost guarantees India’s place in the semifinals, while Pakistan faces an early exit after back-to-back defeats.
Pakistan’s Struggles with the Bat
Opting to bat first, Pakistan posted 241 runs in 49.4 overs, failing to build momentum in a stop-start innings. Saud Shakeel top-scored with a gritty 62 off 76 balls, while Mohammad Rizwan contributed 46 off 77 deliveries. Middle-order batter Khushdil Shah added 38, but Pakistan’s innings lacked the firepower needed to challenge India’s strong batting lineup.
India’s bowlers delivered a disciplined performance, with left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav (3/40) dismantling Pakistan’s middle order. All-rounder Hardik Pandya (2/31) also played a crucial role, dismissing captain Babar Azam (23) and Shakeel to keep Pakistan in check.
India’s Clinical Chase
India’s top order came out with intent, as Rohit Sharma (20 off 15) and Shubman Gill (46 off 52) took on Pakistan’s pace attack, including Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, with early boundaries. The chase was anchored by Virat Kohli, who delivered a masterclass with an unbeaten 100 off 111 balls, showcasing his trademark composure under pressure. Shreyas Iyer provided solid support with a well-crafted 56 off 67 balls, guiding India to a comfortable victory.
Pakistan’s bowlers, including Abrar Ahmed (1/28), struggled to contain India’s batters, as the Men in Blue cruised to victory with ease.
