Virat Kohli: On 23 October 2022, a memorable match unfolded at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, one that will be etched in the memories of cricket enthusiasts for many years to come.
India vs Pakistan, World Cup 2022
This encounter featured India and Pakistan during the ICC T20 World Cup. Leading up to the match, the Pakistani team had generated significant hype around Haris Rauf, with cricket analysts predicting that this fast bowler would dismantle the Indian batting lineup on the Melbourne pitch. However, during the match, Haris Rauf was seen struggling to make an impact. The Pakistani team entered the field with an air of confidence, convinced that victory was within their grasp, a belief that ultimately proved to be their greatest miscalculation.
Pakistan was confident to win the match
After losing the toss, Pakistan was asked to bat first. With notable contributions from Shan Masood and Iftikhar Ahmed, they managed to post a total of 159 runs for 8 wickets in their allotted 20 overs, a score that was deemed competitive on the Melbourne surface. However, the Indian innings began on a shaky note, with both openers, Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul, dismissed early. It was Virat Kohli, who came in at number three, who steadied the ship.
Kohli not only remained not out but also aggressively targeted Haris Rauf, standing firm against the Pakistani bowling attack. He received valuable support from all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who played a crucial innings of 40 runs, disrupting Pakistan’s strategy.
The Virat-show
Ultimately, Virat Kohli’s remarkable performance saw him finish with an unbeaten 82 runs off 53 balls, including 6 fours and 4 sixes. One of the highlights was his iconic six, executed with a back-of-the-hand shot against Haris Rauf, a moment that Rauf has yet to forget. Thanks to Kohli’s stellar innings, India successfully chased down the target, scoring 160 runs on the final ball and clinching victory by 4 wickets.