October 23, 2025 – In a high-voltage encounter at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India defeated Pakistan by 5 wickets in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2025 group stage match today. Over 130,000 fans witnessed a nail-biting contest that went down to the final overs, with Rohit Sharma’s heroic 120-run knock steering India to victory.
Pakistan Posts Competitive Total
Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first. Openers Fakhar Zaman (32) and Imam-ul-Haq (28) provided a steady start, adding 58 runs. But India’s Jasprit Bumrah broke the partnership, dismissing Fakhar caught behind. Skipper Babar Azam (89 off 110 balls) anchored the innings, partnering with Mohammad Rizwan (56 off 65) for a 102-run stand. Spinner Kuldeep Yadav struck twice in the middle overs, removing Rizwan and Iftikhar Ahmed (14) to slow Pakistan’s momentum. Late cameos from Shadab Khan (22*) and Shaheen Afridi (18) pushed Pakistan to 280/9 in 50 overs. Bumrah (3/45) and Kuldeep (2/52) were India’s standout bowlers.
India’s Chase: Early Jitters, Rohit’s Masterclass
India’s chase began poorly. Pacer Shaheen Afridi trapped Shubman Gill (4) LBW in the third over. Virat Kohli (21) looked confident but edged Naseem Shah to slip, reducing India to 45/2. Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul (37) rebuilt with a 76-run partnership. Rahul fell to Shadab’s leg-spin, bringing Suryakumar Yadav (29) to the crease. Rohit shifted gears, smashing 10 fours and 4 sixes, targeting spinners Shadab and Mohammad Nawaz.
Turning Point: Rohit’s Century & Late Drama
Rohit reached his 15th ODI century off 103 balls, celebrating with a roar. At 210/3 in the 38th over, India seemed in control. But Suryakumar’s run-out and Rishabh Pant’s quick dismissal (9) reignited Pakistan’s hopes. With 42 needed off 36 balls, Hardik Pandya (45* off 28) joined Rohit. The duo added 35 runs before Rohit holed out to Afridi in the 46th over, leaving India needing 7 off 14. Ravindra Jadeja (10*) smashed a six off Haris Rauf to seal the win with 9 balls to spare.
Post-Match Reactions
Babar Azam praised his team’s effort but rued missed chances. “Dropping Rohit on 67 cost us. We’ll bounce back stronger,” he said. Rohit Sharma credited Pandya and the crowd: “Hardik’s calmness was key. The fans’ energy kept us going.” Man of the Match Rohit also thanked the bowling unit for restricting Pakistan.
Expert Analysis
Former captain Sunil Gavaskar highlighted India’s middle-order resilience. “Hardik has matured into a finisher. This win boosts India’s confidence for the semifinals,” he said. Pakistan’s coach Gary Kirsten emphasized improving death bowling ahead of their must-win game against New Zealand.
Tournament Context
India tops Group A with 4 wins, while Pakistan (2 wins, 2 losses) faces elimination risk. The arch-rivals could meet again in the semifinals if Pakistan beats New Zealand. Fans globally lauded the match, with #INDvPAK trending for 12 hours on social media.
Upcoming Fixtures
India faces Australia on October 28 in Mumbai. Pakistan takes on New Zealand in Bengaluru on October 26. Both matches are critical for knockout-stage hopes.
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