Kohli’s love affair with high-pressure clashes against Pakistan dates back to the 2012 Asia Cup.
Indian cricketing icon Virat Kohli has long been a tormentor of Pakistan in ICC events, and his match-winning century in Dubai on Sunday further cemented his legacy. Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar summed it up best: "Just tell Virat there’s a match against Pakistan, and he will wake up from his slumber."
Kohli’s love affair with high-pressure clashes against Pakistan dates back to the 2012 Asia Cup, where his stunning 183-run knock helped India chase down 329 runs. Since then, he has been relentless, earning a record five Player of the Match awards against Pakistan in ICC tournaments—two more than the legendary Sachin Tendulkar.
Even when struggling for form, Kohli rises to the occasion when Pakistan is on the other side of the pitch. His ability to deliver in crucial moments has made him a fan favorite even in Pakistan, despite breaking their hearts time and again.
Pakistan cricket may not be as dominant as it once was, but the pressure of an India-Pakistan clash remains intense. For cricketers, one good or bad performance in these games can define careers. Yet, Kohli thrives in these moments, consistently leading India to victory with remarkable innings.
As a dejected Pakistani fan admitted after Sunday’s game, "He’s a gem of cricket, not just Indian cricket."
Virat Kohli’s Record vs Pakistan in ICC Events
- T20 World Cup, 2012 – 78 Runs (Man of the Match)
- T20 World Cup, 2014 – 32 Runs*
- ICC World Cup, 2015 – 107 Runs (Man of the Match)
- T20 World Cup, 2016 – 55 Runs* (Man of the Match)
- 2017 Champions Trophy – 81 Runs
- ICC World Cup, 2019 – 77 Runs*
- T20 World Cup, 2021 – 57 Runs
- T20 World Cup, 2022 – 82 Runs* (Man of the Match)
- Champions Trophy, 2025 – 100 Runs* (Man of the Match)
