IND vs PAK: OTD! Virat Kohli's 82* arch rivals Pakistan at MCG remains one of greatest ever
Xtra News Web Desk: Two years back, Virat Kohli's iconic 82* against Pakistan at a packed Melbourne Cricket Ground in T20 World Cup 2022 left the whole World in awe and still stands as one of the greatest knocks ever.
This innings against Pakistan wasn’t just about runs; it was a testament to his mental fortitude and strategic acumen. In front of 90,000 roaring cricket fans, Virat managed to turn a game single-handedly.
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Let's walk down the memory lane, Pakistan posted a competitive total of 159/8 with Shan Masood and Iftikhar Ahmed scoring 50s. India's chase was never that smooth as at starting India lost too many crucial wickets. With the last recognized batsman, Hardik Pandya, at the other end, the partnership India had between Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya was crucial. However, it was Kohli’s approach that turned the game around. When India needed 48 runs from 18 balls, he started attacking with some iconic shots.
Noticing Shaheed Afridi was not bowling at its best, Virat went on him to capitalise all winning opportunities by smashing a hattrick of boundaries. The moment that would be etched in cricket lore came when India required 28 runs off the last 8 balls.
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????️ #OnThisDay in 2022!
— BCCI (@BCCI) October 23, 2024
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Virat Kohli's iconic 82* in a roller coaster ???? encounter powered #TeamIndia to a memorable win in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 ????????????????@imVkohli pic.twitter.com/muMaJEG0vf
“Come on Cheeks, you’ve got to hit two sixes, otherwise we’ll lose the game.” Virat did it. Nothing was left that over, everything happened that could have. Emotions got the victory over all drama. Against Haris Rauf, Kohli played what many have called ‘the shot of the century’ – a straight backfoot six that not only reduced the equation but also lifted the spirits of every Indian fan following one more six over fine leg, reducing the required runs dramatically. At the last over of Nawaz, Ravichandran Ashwin hit the final run. The match was nothing less than a fairy tale for Indian fans.
"I have no words" Virat told after the match choking with emotions in the middle. 82* at MCG remains as one of the greatest knocks ever in cricket history.
