Champions Trophy: Netizens mock 'greatest rivalry' claims as India thrash Pakistan

India secured a commanding six-wicket victory over Pakistan in their high-stakes ICC Champions Trophy clash on Sunday, with Virat Kohli delivering a match-winning century that all but ended Pakistan's title defence.

After winning the toss and choosing to bat, Pakistan struggled to capitalise on the decision, getting bowled out for 241 runs in 49.4 overs.

Chasing 242, India's batting remained in complete control, led by Virat Kohli's unbeaten 100 off 111 balls. His composed innings ensured India never came under pressure, and they comfortably reached the target with six wickets in hand.

Apart from him, Shubman Gill scored 46 off 52 balls, while Shreyas Iyer contributed 56 off 67.

The match result sparked strong reactions from cricket experts, many of whom highlighted India's superiority and Pakistan's struggles.

Indian journalist Shekhar Gupta wrote, "On some rare day, Pakistan may beat India. But this 'greatest rivalry in the world' business is just desperate TV channel hype. No team with Pakistan's 'athleticism' can be world-class."

Michael Kugelman (South Asia Analyst, Wilson Center) wrote, "Pakistan is hosting a major international cricket tourney for the first time since 1996, but faced India in Dubai as India declined to travel to Pakistan. For Pakistan, it would've been poetic justice to beat India today—but also quite implausible. Team Green left feeling blue yet again."

Indian cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle wrote, "India played at a different level today, and, to be honest, it wasn't ever a contest."

Former India cricketer and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar wrote, "Every time we play Pakistan these days, we are reminded of the growth of Indian cricket and the decline of Pakistan cricket. Longer the format, wider the gulf."

Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari also commented on the national team's performance, stating, "I told you, neither our bowling nor our batting is up to the mark. Neither has modern techniques. Now, world-class teams will play in the Champions Trophy. Our job is done."

Pakistani cricket expert Saj Sadiq wrote, "It's like Men versus Boys these days when it's India versus Pakistan. The approach, the tactics, the preparation, and the team before individual performance ethic. It's on a different level."

"Too many current players representing Pakistan who are timid, afraid to show any aggression, mentally weak, literally defeated before they enter the field against stronger opposition, scared of losing their spot in the team, selfish and only concerned about their performance ahead of the team's needs," he further added.

Over the past week, Pakistan lost their first match of the tournament to New Zealand by 60 runs, while India defeated the Greenshirts by six wickets in the second match on Sunday.