For Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed, bowling to Virat Kohli was the fulfillment of a childhood dream. The 26-year-old leg-spinner finally got his opportunity during the high-pressure India vs Pakistan clash in the 2025 Champions Trophy in Dubai. While Pakistan fell to a six-wicket defeat, the match carried personal significance for Abrar.
Having missed out on selection for both the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup, Abrar made his mark with a disciplined spell of 1/28 in ten overs. More notably, he kept Kohli in check with his tight bowling, making the Indian star work for every run. He also claimed the crucial wicket of Shubman Gill.
Abrar expressed his excitement about fulfilling a lifelong dream of bowling to Virat Kohli in Dubai. Speaking to Telecom Asia Sport, he shared, “It was a special moment for me. I even challenged him to hit a six, but he remained calm and focused. Kohli is not just an incredible batter, but also a great person.”
What truly left Abrar in awe was Kohli’s response after the match. “He came up to me and said, ‘Well bowled.’ That made my day. I grew up admiring him and always told my Under-19 teammates that one day, I would get the chance to bowl to him.”
Beyond cricketing skills, Abrar was also impressed by Kohli’s fitness and dedication. “His fitness is on another level. The way he runs between the wickets is remarkable, and that’s what sets him apart as a cricketer.”
Abrar’s dismissal of Gill was particularly impressive. His celebratory flick of the eyes went viral but sparked mixed reactions, though Abrar brushed off any controversy.
Regarding his on-field actions, Abrar clarified, “That’s just my style of play, and I never intended to hurt anyone. No official told me I did anything wrong, but if someone felt that way, I sincerely apologise.”
Despite his strong individual performance, Pakistan’s campaign ended in disappointment, as they were eliminated early alongside Bangladesh in the group stage.