Virat Kohli once again proved why he is regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, delivering a stunning performance against Pakistan on February 23 in Dubai. With India needing a solid anchor in a high-pressure game, Kohli rose to the occasion, scoring his 51st ODI century and steering his team to a convincing victory. His well-crafted knock not only secured India’s place in the Champions Trophy semi-finals but also reignited admiration from fans across the cricketing world, including those in Pakistan.
Despite coming into the tournament under scrutiny for a dip in form—at least by his own lofty standards—Kohli played a measured yet aggressive innings, dominating the Pakistani bowling attack. His innings was praised globally, with even Pakistani fans acknowledging his brilliance. Videos on social media showcased Pakistani supporters celebrating Kohli's hundred, highlighting the immense respect he commands, even among India's fiercest cricketing rivals.
Pakistani Fans Hail Kohli as 'The Ultimate King'
In an exclusive interaction with India Today, a group of cricket fans in Lahore expressed their admiration for Kohli. While they were disheartened by Pakistan's exit from the tournament, they couldn't help but marvel at Kohli’s sheer class and composure. Many of them hailed him as the ‘ultimate king of cricket’, with some even admitting that the much-debated comparison between Virat Kohli and Babar Azam was one-sided in favor of the Indian superstar.
"The way he constructed his innings was incredible. He is the pillar of the team. He takes all the team members along with him. The way he finished the game against Pakistan, he just played very well," said one fan.
Another supporter recalled Kohli’s memorable knock at the MCG during the T20 World Cup 2022, which marked his return to form.
"When Kohli wasn't in form, he found his touch against us in the T20 World Cup in 2022. We were so happy. We're like, even if we win, we just want Kohli to be back in form," said the fan, emphasizing the admiration he holds for the Indian batter.
Disappointment Over India's Absence in Pakistan for Champions Trophy
While expressing their respect and admiration for Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah, Pakistani fans also voiced their disappointment over India's decision not to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. Given the longstanding political tensions between the two nations, India opted to play their matches in a neutral venue, a decision that many Pakistani fans found disheartening.
"Yeah, we are disappointed. They should come. We understand the situation, and their stand is also right. But sport should be separated from all this. The Indian team has a lot of fans in Pakistan. If they come here, they will know how many fans they have. Kohli will realize how many fans he has. So, we're disappointed. They should have come here to play the Champions Trophy," said a group of Pakistani supporters.
Pakistani Fans Want India to Win the Champions Trophy
When asked about their pick for the Champions Trophy winner, the fans surprisingly backed India. Their reasoning was simple: they wanted the trophy to remain in Asia, and given India's dominant performance, they saw Rohit Sharma's team as the best contender.
"We want India to win. The cup should come to Asia, and India is the best team. There is a misunderstanding that we don't support India. But that's not the case. We always support India, and there is no hostility towards them. We love them just like our own team and respect them as well. Tendulkar is an idol for us as well. There are only a few people who spread hate, but most of us want peace," said one fan, reflecting the growing sentiment of sports bringing nations closer together.
With India set to face New Zealand in the semi-finals on March 2, all eyes will be on Kohli once again. If he continues his brilliant run of form, he might just lead India to yet another major ICC trophy, further solidifying his status as a legend of the game.
