Virat Kohli vs Top Pacers: Key Battles to Watch, ICC Champions Trophy 2025

India will be looking to take the Champions Trophy 2025 journey forward starting February 20, as they take on Bangladesh in a big match in Dubai. Perhaps one of the biggest talking points of the tournament would be Virat Kohli, who for long has proved his worth when it matters, particularly in the ICC events, but this time around he seems to face stiffer opposition, given that there are some of the deadliest pacers who line up against him.

Virat Kohli vs Top Pacers:

Virat Kohli will be tested for his technique as well as resilience against some of the world’s greatest fast bowlers in the Champions Trophy 2025. Here are three bowlers who can give him the toughest battle:

Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan)

Pakistan’s ace pacer Shaheen Afridi is a big threat to Kohli and the Indian batting lineup. With his express pace, pinpoint accuracy to the bat, and his ability to swing both ways, Afridi is a nightmare for any batter, especially the new ball. His previous games against India have shown that he can strike early and often, thus turning the Kohli vs Afridi battle into a must-watch contest.

Marco Jansen (South Africa)

Standing at an intimidating 6’8″, South Africa’s left-arm pacer Marco Jansen has emerged as a first-choice strike bowler in recent years. His discipline line and length, coupled with the extra bounce he extracts with his height, make him a tricky proposition for batsmen. Kohli, who has a penchant for scoring against fast bowling, will need to be at his best to tackle Jansen’s sharp seam movement and his relentless short-ball strategy.

Jofra Archer (England)

When fully fit, England’s pace sensation Jofra Archer is one of the most intimidating bowlers in world cricket. His raw pace, deceptive bounce, and deadly yorkers make him a constant threat in limited-overs cricket. Archer’s ability to strike early in an innings means that Kohli will need to be at his very best to negotiate his fierce deliveries. If these two players go head-to-head, fans can expect a gripping contest.

The roadmap for India through Champions Trophy 2025.

As India sets up for what promises to be a competitive event, all focus will be directed towards how this batting unit comes out against bowling threats. Experientially gifted players Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Shubman Gill, coupled with Kohli, will look forward to maintaining supremacy in ICC competitions. The fact that the Indian team can answer back to such top-notch pacers will come into play at every step during the tournament.

With Virat Kohli spearheading India’s batting, it is quite likely that the Champions Trophy 2025 will be filled with drama, excitement, and legendary performances as these batsmen clash with some of the fiercest bowlers the game has on offer.

Also read: ICC Champions Trophy: Indian Batters to Smash Centuries