India vs Pakistan – Champions Trophy 2025
Match Overview
- Event: ICC Champions Trophy 2025
- Match: India vs Pakistan (Group Stage)
- Date: Sunday, February 23, 2025
- Time: 2:30 PM IST (Indian Standard Time)
- Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, UAE
- Broadcast: Star Sports Network, Disney+ Hotstar (India)
Significance of the Match
The India-Pakistan rivalry is one of the most exciting and intense rivalries in cricket history. Every time these two teams meet, it is more than just a cricket match; it is a battle of pride, emotions, and national prestige. In the context of the Champions Trophy, this match holds even greater significance, as both teams are looking to secure a place in the knockout stage.
This particular encounter is even more interesting because Pakistan is the official host of the Champions Trophy, but due to political tensions between the two countries, India’s matches are being played in the UAE. This decision has already sparked controversy, adding an extra layer of intensity to the clash.
Team India Analysis
Recent Form & Performance
India is coming into this match with confidence after securing a six-wicket victory against Bangladesh in their opening match. The Indian team performed exceptionally well, with their batting and bowling departments clicking at the right time.
- Shubman Gill was the standout performer with an unbeaten century (101*).
- Mohammed Shami played a crucial role, taking five wickets and restricting Bangladesh to a low total.
India has been in great form over the last few years in ICC tournaments, making them one of the favorites for the title. Their squad is well-balanced with a mix of experienced players and young talents.
Key Players to Watch
- Virat Kohli (Batsman) – Kohli thrives in big matches, especially against Pakistan. His aggressive approach and hunger for runs make him a key player in India’s batting lineup.
- Jasprit Bumrah (Bowler) – One of the best bowlers in the world, Bumrah’s ability to deliver under pressure and bowl yorkers at will makes him a crucial asset.
- Rohit Sharma (Captain, Batsman) – Known as the “Hitman,” Rohit’s ability to score big in ICC tournaments makes him a dangerous opponent.
- Ravindra Jadeja (All-rounder) – His all-round capabilities with both bat and ball give India an edge in the middle overs.
India’s Probable Playing XI
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (WK)
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Shami
- Mohammed Siraj
Team Pakistan Analysis
Recent Form & Performance
Pakistan, on the other hand, is under pressure after a disappointing start to the tournament. They suffered a heavy defeat against New Zealand, where their batting lineup collapsed, and their bowlers failed to contain the opposition.
Key Players to Watch
- Babar Azam (Captain, Batsman) – Pakistan’s batting mainstay, Babar is known for his consistency and elegant stroke play. He will need to lead from the front.
- Shaheen Afridi (Bowler) – His ability to swing the ball at high speed makes him a serious threat, especially with the new ball.
- Mohammad Rizwan (Wicketkeeper-Batsman) – Rizwan has been Pakistan’s most reliable batsman in the last few years, often playing match-winning knocks.
- Haris Rauf (Bowler) – With his pace and aggression, Rauf can trouble the Indian batsmen, especially in the middle overs.
Pakistan’s Probable Playing XI
- Babar Azam (C)
- Mohammad Rizwan (WK)
- Fakhar Zaman
- Iftikhar Ahmed
- Saud Shakeel
- Shadab Khan
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Shaheen Afridi
- Haris Rauf
- Hasan Ali
- Naseem Shah
Head-to-Head in Champions Trophy
India and Pakistan have faced each other five times in the ICC Champions Trophy, with Pakistan leading the head-to-head record 3-2.
- 2017 Final: Pakistan defeated India by 180 runs, with Fakhar Zaman scoring a century and Mohammad Amir dismantling India’s top order.
- 2013 Group Stage: India won comfortably with a strong performance from their bowlers.
- 2009 & 2004: Pakistan emerged victorious in both matches.
- 2002: The match was abandoned due to rain.
- Virat Kohli vs Shaheen Afridi – A classic contest between an in-form batsman and a lethal fast bowler. If Shaheen can dismiss Kohli early, Pakistan will have a major advantage.
- Babar Azam vs Jasprit Bumrah – Babar’s patience and technique against Bumrah’s deadly accuracy will be a thrilling battle.
- India’s Top Order vs Pakistan’s Pace Attack – Rohit, Gill, and Kohli against Shaheen, Haris, and Naseem will determine the game’s outcome.
- Pakistan’s Middle Order vs India’s Spin Duo – Kuldeep Yadav and Jadeja could be crucial in breaking Pakistan’s middle order.
Match Prediction
India enters this match as the favorite based on recent performances and their all-round squad strength. However, Pakistan has a history of bouncing back under pressure, especially against India in ICC tournaments. If their bowlers, particularly Shaheen and Haris Rauf, can strike early, they could put India on the back foot.
- India’s Strengths: Strong batting lineup, experienced players, and world-class bowlers.
- Pakistan’s Strengths: A fiery pace attack and a match-winner in Babar Azam.
Prediction: India 60% – Pakistan 40%
FAQ
1.Will India go to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy in 2025?
A3: Yes, India will participate in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is being co-hosted by Pakistan and the UAE. However, all of India’s matches, including their group games, will be played in Dubai, ensuring a neutral venue due to geopolitical tensions between the two nations