For Abrar Ahmed, the Pakistani spinner, the opportunity to bowl to Virat Kohli represented the fulfillment of a lifelong aspiration. The 26-year-old leg spinner faced Kohli during the intense India vs Pakistan match in the 2025 Champions Trophy held in Dubai. Despite Pakistan's six-wicket loss, the encounter held significant personal value for Abrar.

Having been overlooked for both the 2023 ODI World Cup and the T20 World Cup match in New York, Abrar made a notable impression with a disciplined performance, conceding only 28 runs in his ten overs. Crucially, he managed to contain Kohli, compelling the renowned batsman to exert considerable effort for his runs. Additionally, Abrar successfully dismissed Shubman Gill during the match.

“My childhood dream of bowling to Kohli has been realized in Dubai,” Abrar remarked to Telecom Asia Sport. “It was a formidable challenge, and I playfully encouraged him to hit me for a six, but he remained unfazed. Kohli is an exceptional batsman, as we all recognize, but he is also a remarkable individual.”

Abrar was particularly moved by Kohli's response following the match. “He complimented me with a ‘well bowled,’ and that truly made my day,” he shared. “I have idolized Kohli throughout my youth and often told Under-19 players that I would one day bowl to him.”

The admiration that Abrar holds for Kohli extends beyond his cricketing prowess. He was especially impressed by Kohli’s extraordinary fitness and dedication. “Kohli's fitness is remarkable. His agility between the wickets is striking, which contributes to his uniqueness as a cricketer.”

Abrar on Gill celebration

Regarding his celebration after dismissing Gill, Abrar delivered a remarkable delivery that turned sharply and knocked over the stumps, leading to a viral celebratory gesture that some deemed controversial. However, Abrar chose to downplay the incident.

“That is simply my style, and I see no issue with it. No official has indicated that I acted inappropriately, but if it offended anyone, I apologize; that was not my intention,” the spinner stated.

The tournament, however, ended in disappointment for Pakistan, as they were among the first – alongside Bangladesh – to get knocked out in the group stage.

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