Virat Kohli Shatters Records, Leads India to Champions Trophy Final with Masterclass Knock

Image credits: (AP Photo)

Indian cricket fans witnessed a masterclass performance from Virat Kohli as he shattered several records and led his team to a thrilling victory against Australia in the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final. The 36-year-old batting sensation scored a crucial 84 runs off 98 balls, helping India defeat Australia by four wickets and secure a spot in the final. This **dramatic win** marked India's third successive Champions Trophy final appearance, and Kohli's knock will be remembered as one of the most iconic moments in the tournament's history.

Kohli's innings was a perfect blend of aggression and caution, as he maintained a solid tempo throughout the chase. He received much-needed support from Shreyas Iyer (45) and KL Rahul (42*), and together they guided India to a comfortable victory with 11 balls to spare. **The partnership between Kohli and Iyer** was a game-changer, as they put on 91 runs for the third wicket and shifted the momentum in India's favor. Hardik Pandya also played a crucial cameo, scoring 28 runs off 24 balls and smashing three massive sixes to seal the deal for India.

During the course of his innings, Kohli surpassed several milestones, including **becoming the second batter in history to score 8000 runs in ODI run-chases**. He achieved this feat in just 159 innings, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's record and cementing his status as the 'chase master.' Kohli also **surpassed Shikhar Dhawan's tally of 701 runs** in the Champions Trophy, becoming India's top scorer in the tournament. His 24th fifty-plus score in ICC ODI events is a new record, and he continues to dominate the list of most 50-plus scores in ICC ODI tournaments:

• 24 - Virat Kohli (53 innings)
• 23 - Sachin Tendulkar (58 innings)
• 18 - Rohit Sharma (42 innings)
• 17 - Kumar Sangakkara (56 innings)
• 16 - Ricky Ponting (60 innings)

Kohli's **record-breaking knock** has sparked a heated debate about his comparison to Sachin Tendulkar. While Tendulkar is widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen of all time, Kohli's ability to perform under pressure and guide his team to victory in high-stakes chases has earned him the reputation as the ultimate 'chase master.' With 51 ODI centuries, including 28 in successful run-chases, Kohli continues to break records and push the boundaries of excellence in the sport. **The stage is set for a thrilling final**, as India prepares to face either New Zealand or South Africa in the summit clash on Sunday, March 9.

As the cricket world continues to marvel at Kohli's incredible talent, fans are eagerly anticipating the final showdown. Will India emerge victorious, or will their opponents spoil the party? One thing is certain - Virat Kohli's masterclass knock against Australia will be remembered as one of the greatest moments in Champions Trophy history, and his legacy as the 'chase master' continues to inspire and awe fans around the world.