India finally defeated Pakistan in the Super Fours match at the R Premadasa in Colombo by scoring all two points after a roller coaster of emotions and numerous interruptions. Virat Kohli spoke candidly about his fitness, recuperation, match preparation, and much more following the game. In his international career, the 34-year-old also claimed that he had never played back-to-back ODI games on consecutive days.
“In my 15 years of cricket, this is the first time I have ever done something like that. Fortunately, since we are Test players, we are aware of how to return the following day and play. Recovery is important. There was a lot of humidity today. I need to take care of my rehabilitation because I turn 35 in November.
A big thank you from my side to the grounds personnel,” Virat Kohli remarked during the post-game presentation.
Babar Azam called the toss and immediately decided to put India in to bat first. To put Pakistan on the back foot, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill launched an immediate all-out assault on Shaheen Afridi. Prior to Pakistan’s Shadab Khan striking first, the opening pair put together a quick-fire 121-run partnership, sending Rohit Sharma back to the pavilion for 56.
Shubman Gill retreated behind his captain as Afridi removed the opener for 58 with a superb change of pace delivery. After that, it was only Virat Kohli and KL Rahul as they pieced up a 233-run partnership to push India to a mammoth 356-run total. Rahul scored 111* while Virat Kohli scored 122*.
Pakistan had a mountain to climb, but by making a shaky beginning, they made their task even harder. Hardik Pandya knocked over Babar Azam with a peach that jagged back in, while Jasprit Bumrah sent Imam-ul-Haq, who was in fine form, packing for just nine. Kuldeep Yadav was introduced by Rohit Sharma and quickly wreaked havoc on Pakistan, taking five wickets for just 25 runs in eight overs. Virat Kohli was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance, and India defeated the opposition by a score of 228 runs. On Tuesday, September 12, at the R Premadasa in Colombo, India will play Sri Lanka.
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