India’s convincing six-wicket win over Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was largely untroubled, but Shreyas Iyer still believes they could have wrapped up the chase even earlier had it not been for Abrar Ahmed. Speaking at the post-match press conference, the Indian batter reserved special praise for Abrar, Pakistan’s standout bowler.
During his 56-run innings, Iyer had to negotiate a testing spell from leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, who was Pakistan’s most economical bowler, returning figures of 1 for 28 in 10 overs. His only wicket was a stunning delivery that dismissed Shubman Gill, but his control and consistency made life difficult for the Indian batters.
“It wasn’t easy to take charge against Abrar. In that particular phase, it was important to take singles as much as possible and take the team to the end. Once we reach 30 or 40 runs, it is easy to charge on from there.”
Shreyas Iyer was not the only player to give Abrar Ahmed his flowers, as Virat Kohli was also seen shaking hands with the spinner after the completion of his innings in appreciation of his effort. Despite his best efforts, Pakistan’s bowling attack failed to challenge the Indian batting lineup, with the World Cup finalists reaching the target with 45 balls to spare. The win not only took Rohit Sharma’s men to the semifinals but also largely ended Pakistan’s chances of making it to the knockout round.
Pakistan will have one last game against Bangladesh to salvage some pride, while India will face New Zealand in their last Group A fixture in Dubai before getting ready for the semifinals.
