In a thrilling encounter in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, India delivered a clinical performance to crush Pakistan by 7 wickets, nearly securing their place in the semi-finals. The highly anticipated match saw India chase down a modest target of 242 runs, showcasing their dominance and composure in pressure situations.

Pakistan, batting first, struggled to build partnerships against a disciplined Indian bowling attack. Despite a fighting 65-run knock from captain Babar Azam, the Pakistani batting line-up couldn’t capitalize on the early starts. India’s bowlers, led by Mohammed Shami, kept the pressure on throughout the innings. Shami’s fiery spell and ability to move the ball both ways left the Pakistani batsmen in all sorts of trouble. Ravindra Jadeja, with his guile and variations, also played a key role, picking up wickets and slowing down the run rate.

Pakistan’s total of 241/9 seemed below par, with none of the other batsmen stepping up to support Babar Azam. Despite some resistance from Shadab Khan (34) and Fakhar Zaman (29), Pakistan’s total didn’t challenge India significantly.

Chasing 242, India’s opening pair of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill gave the team a solid foundation. Rohit’s attacking intent was evident from the start as he played a brilliant knock of 89 runs, which included several boundaries and sixes. His aggressive approach put Pakistan’s bowlers on the backfoot, and India raced towards the target. Shubman Gill, playing with maturity, contributed a valuable 46 before falling.

With the chase well under control, Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer took over to finish the job. Kohli, as always, played a calm and composed knock 100* (111), ensuring there was no pressure on the chase. His 50-run unbeaten performance was a testimony to his consistency in high-pressure games. Along with Iyer’s quickfire 25, the two comfortably steered India to victory, finishing the match with 7 wickets in hand.

This resounding win has almost secured India’s place in the semi-finals, with their all-round performance proving too much for Pakistan. The Indian team’s dominant display with both bat and ball sent a strong message to their rivals in the tournament.