It was meant to be a massive total which would take the match to the wire. In the end, India's vice-captain Virat Kohli made it his night and helped his team to a 7-wicket win in a rather simple manner despite the target of 330.
Pakistan bowlers were systematically dismantled as the chase reflected India's perfect planning after conceding runs by the dozens. The chase may have begun disastrously as Gautam Gambhir fell in the first over. It however brought Kohli to the middle to partner Sachin Tendulkar (52). The two stabilised the innings and struck together 133 runs for the 2nd wicket.
It helped India build a solid foundation from where the attack was a natural consequent. Tendulkar edged Saeed Ajmal but was replaced by Rohit Sharma whose cautious approach was more of a boon for the rather aggressive Kohli at the other end. The two hit 172 runs between each other before Sharma fell to Umar Gul on 68.
The damage though, had been done as Kohli gave direction and purpose to his mighty heaves, leaving Pakistani fielders with only dropping shoulders to show for their efforts.
Although Kohli was eventually dismissed by Gul, the win was sealed by Suresh Raina and MS Dhoni who completed the formalities.
India now rake in eight points from three matches, a point behind Pakistan. Had India won the match before or in the 40th over, a bonus point could have been earned. The men in blue though, will take this win with open arms.
