After yet another game-winning performance in the current ICC Champions Trophy 2025, former Australian captain Michael Clarke praised Indian player Virat Kohli as the “greatest one-day cricketer.” India advanced to the final after defeating Australia by four wickets in the semi-final on Tuesday thanks to a pivotal 84-run performance from Kohli.
This performance put Kohli within 45 runs away from breaking Chris Gayle’s record of 791 runs, becoming him the second-highest run-scorer in Champions Trophy history. His calm yet forceful demeanor once again shown his unparalleled capacity to lead pursuits under duress.
Virat Kohli took 64 runs in singles and doubles out of the 84 in the Semis Final.
– A proper GOAT of this format. 🐐🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/tmybe4T5Y6
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) March 4, 2025
Michael Clarke calls Kohli the greatest player in ODI history.
Michael Clarke praised Kohli profusely on JioHotstar, recognizing his exceptional effect and consistency under duress. Clarke remarked, “He (Kohli) brilliantly assessed the conditions once again.” He was a class player who understood precisely what his team needed and how to position them for victory. His century against Pakistan demonstrated the same thing.
“Virat has every shot in the book; there’s no questioning his ability to find boundaries,” the former Australian captain continued. He continues to show himself on the biggest platform, under the most pressure, and is, in my opinion, the best one-day cricket player of all time. When it counts, he delivers because he understands what to do.
The partnership between Kohli and Iyer supports India’s chase.
India was in danger after losing their openers in eight overs while chasing 265 runs. But with a vital 91-run stand for the fourth wicket, Kohli and Shreyas Iyer anchored the innings. Iyer was removed after scoring 45 runs off 62 balls.
Additionally, Clarke gave Iyer credit for his aggressive intentions, which relieved Kohli of some of the strain. “Iyer performed really well. His aggressive attitude, excellent intent, and constant desire to play his strokes relieve his batting partner of some of the burden. Virat Kohli and he are a wonderful match. Because of his background, Virat is able to calm Shreyas and provide guidance when necessary. Without a question, their cooperation won the match,” Clarke continued.
India Advances to the Final of the Champions Trophy
Although Australia did manage to take several important wickets, India was able to stay on track because to Kohli’s poise and expertise. While acknowledging India’s genius, Clarke recognized that Australia might have won the match if Kohli had been dismissed sooner. “Australia took a few wickets, and the game may have been quite different if they had broken that streak sooner, particularly by getting Virat out. However, India deserves praise for their outstanding performance,” Clarke said.
India will now try to win another significant ICC championship in the Champions Trophy 2025 final after this victory. If Kohli can top Gayle’s total in the summit match, he may be on the verge of another record-breaking achievement.
