Former Indian cricketer Yograj Singh heaped praise on Virat Kohli following his match-winning performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal against Australia, but said that the star batter’s shot that led to his dismissal was an "unnecessary" one.
Kohli’s stunning knock of 98-ball 84 during a run-chase of 265 on a tricky Dubai pitch propelled India from 43/2 to a memorable four-wicket victory, taking India to the final of the showpiece tournament.
When Kohli was dismissed, India needed a manageable 40 off 44 balls and the likes of Hardik Pandya (28 off 24) and KL Rahul (42* off 34) completed the win with 11 deliveries to spare.
"Virat is a match-winner. But I feel sad because that shot was unnecessary. He should have finished the match. He is like a son to me. He could have done a century and had India lost, it would have been wasted. He changed the game today. I would like to say this to people who criticise Virat, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, that they should stop, become your child's support so that we keep make progress," Yograj said while speaking to ANI.
He also lauded Hardik for his blazing cameo, including a four and three sixes, that took India over the finishing line. The all-rounder continued to play on despite seeming to have twisted his knee and Yograj hailed him for his effort.
"Cricket is a religion in our country. When these players, who give their blood and sweat for us, when they fall, pick them up, when they feel sad, console them, when they cannot walk, then lift them on your shoulders. Hardik's knee was twisted. But he scored some sixes and stood for his country. People should learn from this. He did get himself a runner. People should be positive, irrespective of win or loss. If you keep talking down on a player, he goes down forever," he added.
Yograj also appreciated the Men in Blue for a team effort, saying, "You have a nice captain, with a proper vision. He did not play well today but it is okay, he will score a century in the final."
India will now face the winner of the second semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand in the title clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday (March 9).
