One of the main factors in the Men in Blue’s victory over Australia in the opening semi-final of the current Champions Trophy 2025 was star batsman Virat Kohli. Notably, on Tuesday, March 4, the exciting match took place at Dubai’s Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Virat Kohli impressive 84-run knock in the game’s second innings earned him another Player of the Match title.
Ambati Rayudu, a former Indian cricket player, praised Kohli’s ability to get runs against spinners and his game sense as the two main things that most impressed him throughout his performance.
“His ability to rotate the strike between midwicket and square leg, as well as his skill against leg spin and left-arm spin, was outstanding, in my opinion. He made it appear effortless on a pitch that was turning and stopping, which is a testament to his expertise. Never question his ability to hit fours or sixes; it all comes down to poise, knowing what needs to be done that day, and then doing it flawlessly. He is the best cricket player of all time in this format and a once-in-a-generation talent. Speaking on JioHotstar, Rayudu stated, “It’s a special night for him, his family, and 150 crore Indians who are blessed to witness his greatness.”
Ambati Rayudu redemption during the Ahmedabad final in 2023
The former cricket player who is now a commentator also praised KL Rahul’s batting display. Rayudu was hoping the batsman-wicketkeeper would do similarly in the ODI competition final.
He has been under a lot of strain because he isn’t really used to playing at number six. But he showed great maturity in handling it well. He played several excellent shots and took smart risks. He took the strain, letting Virat do what he does best. After the 2023 final in Ahmedabad, which he took very personally, I believe that this performance served as a sort of atonement for him. He went on to say, “This is a great way to make amends, and hopefully he delivers another great knock in the final.”
Rahul held his ground and expertly anchored the chase when Kohli left the field after he and Rahul had shared a 47-run partnership. Rahul led India to the final with an undefeated 42* off 34 deliveries. The winners of the match between South Africa and New Zealand will face off in the summit clash.
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