Pandya: India's tactical leverage, insurance cover

India all but seal their Champions Trophy semi-final berth with a six-wicket win over Pakistan while the hosts face early exit

- Rasesh Mandani

DUBAI: The Dubai police's cavalry unit was called to control the crowd for the big show of the Champions Trophy - India versus Pakistan. But the stadium was only half full when the first ball was bowled on Sunday afternoon. The fans flooded in by the time the lights came on and that's when the predominantly Indian spectators were treated by their batters, their fireworks exhibition taming Pakistan yet again in an ICC world event.

Led by Virat Kohli's unbeaten 100 (111b, 7x4), India chased down 241 in 42.3 overs, taking their ICC ODI events head-to-head record with Pakistan to 11-3. It also gave a big fillip to their semi-final hopes. A New Zealand win against Bangladesh on Monday will see them through.

It proved to be another hyped up India-Pakistan encounter watched by film stars, dignitaries and many of India's young T20 team members. But it failed to live up to the billing. Hosts Pakistan's second successive loss in the competition has left them staring at the exit door.

Towards the back end of India's run chase, the only point of interest was whether Kohli would get to a century. Hardik Pandya's late flourish only annoyed the crowd. All they wanted was to watch Kohli complete his 51st ODI ton. When he lofted Khushdil Shah over extra cover for the winning boundary, their wishes were answered. Kohli removed his helmet flap, raised his bat, closed his eyes and thanked the heavens.

Nothing awakens Kohli's senses more than a battle against Pakistan. He kept his cool against Abrar Ahmed, aware that Pakistan's only specialist spinner was also their biggest weapon. Off the pacers, this time he had no difficulty. Somewhere amidst his fluid stroke play, Kohli punched Haris Rauf through covers to bring up his 14,000 ODI runs. A little reminder to his critics not to get caught up in judging his form by mixing up formats.