DUBAI: India star batter Virat Kohli has opened up after smashing an unbeaten match-winning century against arch-rivals Pakistan in the fifth match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, here at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
India thrashed Pakistan by six wickets in a one-sided encounter, thanks to a dominant all-round performance.
The former champions chased down the modest total of 242 runs in 42.3 overs on the loss of four wickets. Top-scorer Kohli smashed an unbeaten century off 111 balls, finishing the match with a boundary.
After the match, Kohli highlighted the joy of reaching the semi-final and blocking out external noise to focus on his team’s success.
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“To be honest, it feels good to be able to bat in that manner in an important game to seal qualification. Feels good to contribute in a game where we lost Rohit early, had to put in the understanding of what we learnt in the last game,” said Kohli.
He further emphasized how he composed his innings after captain Rohit Sharma’s early dismissal.
“My job was to control the middle overs against the spinners without taking too many risks, towards the end Shreyas accelerated and I got a few boundaries as well.”
“It allowed me to play my usual ODI game,” Kohli said.
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The Indian stalwart elaborated on his role in the team and highlighted the importance of mental clarity.
“I have a decent understanding of my game, it is about keeping the outside noise away, staying in my space and taking care of my energy levels and thoughts. Very easy to get pulled into the expectations. My job is to stay in the present and do a job for the team.”
“My keynotes to myself are to put my 100 percent every ball in the field, and then God eventually rewards you,” he said.
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