Image: Axar Patel admitted calculating runs to ensure Kohli's 51st ODI century / © India Today
In the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, India secured a commanding six-wicket victory over Pakistan in Dubai. Chasing a target of 242, India’s win was highlighted by Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 100 off 111 balls, his 51st ODI century, including seven boundaries. Kohli sealed the game with a boundary, ensuring India’s near-certain spot in the semifinals.
Shubman Gill set the foundation with a solid 46 off 52 balls before falling to Abrar Ahmed, who impressed with 1/28 in 10 overs. As India neared victory, Kohli stood at 96, and Axar Patel, his non-striker partner, admitted he was calculating runs to ensure Kohli reached his milestone without mishaps. He said:
I was doing the math for Virat Kohli’s hundred at the end. I was just hoping not to edge the ball, I had a lot of fun.
Earlier, Pakistan posted 241 runs, with Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel forming a steady partnership. However, poor shot selection and disciplined Indian bowling, led by Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Hardik Pandya, and Harshit Rana, restricted them.
After the win, Anushka Sharma, Kohli’s wife, shared an Instagram story celebrating the moment, showing Kohli winking and giving a thumbs-up. With this win, India strengthened their semifinal chances, while Pakistan faced potential elimination after their second consecutive defeat in the tournament.