The duo of Kohli and Pandya forged a pivotal partnership that shifted the momentum firmly in India's favor
October 23, 2022, is a date etched in the memories of cricket fans around the world, marking the moment India triumphed over arch-rivals Pakistan in a breathtaking encounter at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
The thrilling match saw India chasing down a challenging target of 160 runs, with Virat Kohli delivering a masterclass in batting amid early setbacks.
Kohli’s innings became the stuff of legends, particularly his two towering sixes off Pakistan's Haris Rauf, which sent shockwaves through the crowd and ignited a wave of excitement among fans. Those sixes remain a vivid recollection for cricket enthusiasts, symbolizing the intensity and passion that defines matches between these two cricketing giants.
Reflecting on the nerve-wracking moments of the game, Indian captain Rohit Sharma admitted he struggled to watch the match live.
''We were in trouble. I'm a very nervous guy so I was sitting inside the dressing room, couldn't watch it live, but Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya's partnership turned the game on. I came out in the final overs and enjoyed the match,'' Sharma told ICC.
After a shaky start, with India losing four wickets for just 31 runs, the duo of Kohli and Pandya forged a pivotal partnership that shifted the momentum firmly in India's favor. Their resilience and determination helped India recover from the brink of defeat, showcasing the spirit of the team.
This historic encounter in the ICC T20 World Cup is celebrated as one of the greatest comebacks in cricket history, further amplified by the fierce rivalry between India and Pakistan.