News Delhi: Melbourne, October 23 – In a high-stakes T20 World Cup match between India and Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Virat Kohli delivered one of the most iconic innings of his career, leading India to a breathtaking victory. The match will be remembered for Kohli’s incredible composure and power-hitting, particularly in the final overs when he struck two massive sixes off Haris Rauf to shift the momentum in India’s favor.
A Nerve-Wracking Chase
Chasing a target of 160 runs set by Pakistan, India found themselves in deep trouble at 31 for 4 in the early overs. The Pakistani pacers, including Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, dominated the Indian top order, putting immense pressure on the Men in Blue. However, Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya formed a crucial partnership, stabilizing the innings and keeping India’s hopes alive.
Virat Kohli’s Masterclass Under Pressure
As the match entered the final overs, the required run rate soared, and India needed 28 runs off the last 8 balls. With Haris Rauf bowling brilliantly, it seemed like Pakistan had the upper hand. But then came the defining moment of the game.
On the fourth ball of the 19th over, Kohli, standing firm under pressure, played a breathtaking shot straight down the ground for a six. The entire stadium erupted as the ball sailed over the ropes. On the very next delivery, Kohli pulled off another incredible six over fine leg, stunning the Pakistani players and reigniting India’s hopes. These two game-changing shots brought India back into the contest.
A Dramatic Last Over and India’s Victory
With 16 runs needed in the final over, bowled by Mohammad Nawaz, the tension was at its peak. Kohli’s heroics continued as he guided India through a roller-coaster finish, taking advantage of no-balls, wides, and pressure on the Pakistani bowlers. In the end, Ravichandran Ashwin hit the winning shot, sealing India’s dramatic win with just one ball to spare.
Virat Kohli: The Undisputed Chase Master
Kohli remained unbeaten on 82 off 53 balls, a knock that will go down as one of the greatest in T20 World Cup history. His remarkable innings, combined with his ability to stay calm under pressure, once again proved why he is regarded as one of the best chase masters in cricket.
Reactions and Celebrations
After the match, Kohli was visibly emotional, calling this innings the best of his career. Fans, cricket experts, and former players showered praise on him, with social media flooded with messages celebrating his incredible performance.This thrilling victory not only added another memorable chapter to the historic India-Pakistan rivalry but also reinforced Kohli’s legacy as one of the greatest cricketers of all time.