On Sunday, the moment called for a hero, and Virat Kohli answered yet again! Under scrutiny for his form and facing arch-rivals Pakistan, he silenced doubters with a sensational 51st ODI century, leading India (244/4 in 42.3 overs) to a six-wicket victory over Pakistan (241) in Dubai.

Kohli’s gritty knock on a sluggish Dubai track ensured India never lost momentum despite Rohit Sharma’s early dismissal. Staying true to his style, he finished the chase in emphatic fashion, celebrating his ton with a viral gesture that seemed to say, “Calm down, I’m here.”

Pakistan tried everything, but Kohli stood as an unshakable force, scripting a batting masterclass that pushed them to the brink of elimination. With this knock, he also reached the monumental 14,000-run mark in ODIs.

Chasing 242, Rohit Sharma attacked Naseem Shah before being cleaned up by Shaheen Afridi for 20(15). After an opening stand of 31, Shubman Gill and Kohli steadied the innings, blending caution with aggression. Gill’s 46(52) ended when Abrar Ahmed deceived him with a carrom ball.

Shreyas Iyer then partnered with Kohli in a defining stand, countering Pakistan’s attack with smart stroke play. Shreyas’ 56(67) ended via a stunning catch by Imam-ul-Haq, while Hardik Pandya fell for 8(6).

Kohli reached his ton with a glorious cover drive, sealing India’s dominant win with seven overs to spare.