The highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to ignite cricketing action, with the tournament opener featuring Pakistan and New Zealand on February 19 at the National Bank S?tadium, ?Karachi.

High-stakes ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener

This ninth edition of the prestigious event will be jointly hosted by Pakistan and the UAE, bringing together the top eight teams from the ODI World Cup 2023. The clash between Pakistan and New Zealand holds immense significance, especially given their recent encounters in an ODI tri-series in Pakistan, where the Blackcaps emerged victorious on both occasions. While Pakistan showcased their mettle in ODI cricket post-World Cup with notable series wins against Australia and South Africa, their struggles in the tri-series have raised concerns. However, playing in front of a passionate home crowd, the Men in Green will aim for a strong start to their Champions Trophy campaign. The result of this opening game could shape their momentum, especially with the high-stakes clash between Pakistan and India scheduled for February 23.

Key concerns ahead of the tournament opener

Pakistan have concerns in the batting and bowling departments. The absence of in-form opener Saim Ayub due to injury has left a void at the top of the order that could prompt management to consider Babar Azam as a potential opener alongside Fakhar Zaman. Fakhar, who made a return to the squad last year, has been in impressive form and will carry additional responsibility in the absence of a specialist opener. The middle order will revolve around Mohammad Rizwan, who is not only leading the team but also in outstanding form, having recently smashed an unbeaten century against South Africa. Salman Ali Agha, who partnered Rizwan in a record stand in? that same game, is another crucial component of the batting order.

While Pakistan’s batting depth offers promise, the major concern lies in their bowling attack, which lacked sharpness during the recently concluded home tri-series. The pace unit, led by Shaheen Afridi, raised alarms over their effectiveness in breaking partnerships. Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf will be key figures in providing support, but the absence of a specialist spin option remains a worry. Abrar Ahmed will be the lone front-line spinner, with additional assistance expected from part-time options Khushdil Shah and Salman Agha. Given the ?conditions in Karachi, where reverse swing and spin could play a decisive role later in the innings, Pakistan’s bowlers will need to step up to avoid conceding another defeat to New Zealand.

Also READ: India’s group-stage rivals: Evaluating Pakistan, New Zealand? & Bangladesh in Champions Trophy 2025

Pakistan’s predicted playing XI for the Champions Trophy 2025 game against New Zealand:

1. Fakhar Zaman (Opener)

Returning to form after a fallout with the PCB, Fakhar has shown he can be a game-changer at the top. His recent performances make him an important part of the opening pair. Without Saim Ayub, Fakhar’s role becomes crucial in giving the team a strong start in this high-pressure match.

2. Babar Azam (Opener)

As Pakistan’s captain, Babar is the team’s mainstay in the batting order. Known for his consistency and leadership, Babar’s ability to anchor the innings and adjust his game depending on the situation will be vital, especially in early overs against New Zealand’s pace attack.

3. Saud Shakeel (Top-order Batter)

Shakeel’s rise has been noteworthy, with his solid technique and stability in the middle order. Shakeel will play a crucial role in building partnerships and stabilizing the innings if early wickets fall, especially in conditions where New Zealand’s seamers could exploit early movement.

4. Mohammad Rizwan (WK & Captain)

Captain Rizwan has been in exceptional form, notably scoring an unbeaten century in recent matches. As the captain and wicketkeeper, Rizwan’s leadership and batting prowess will be key, especially in the middle order where Pakistan’s batting has occasionally faltered.

5. Salman Ali Agha (Middle-order Batter)

Sa??lman Agha has proved his worth with crucial middle-order contributions, notably during the recent record partnership with Rizwan. His ability to rotat??e strike and accelerate when needed makes him a valuable asset in the powerplay and death overs.

6. Tayyab Tahir (Middle-order Batter)

Tahir will be the wild card in the lineup. Though he has limited experience, he brings an aggressive approach that could prove beneficial in shifting momentum in the middle overs against New Zealand’s spinners and pacers.

7. Khushdil Shah (All-rounder)

Khushdil’s role will be pivotal as an all-rounder. Known for his power-hitting in the middle order, he also offers useful left-arm spin, making him a potential match-winner in conditions that suit spinners, especially when Pakistan looks to break partnerships.

8. Shaheen Afridi (Fast Bowler)

Afridi is one of the best pacers in world cricket and will be Pakistan’s main threat with the ball. His ability to generate pace and swing makes him a prime candidate to exploit Karachi’s pitch conditions, which can aid pacers in the early overs.

9. Naseem Shah (Fast Bowler)

Naseem is another key figure in Pakistan’s bowling attack. Despite some recent inconsistency, his raw pace and ability to extract bounce will be crucial, especially against New Zealand’s top-order, which is known for its vulnerability to express pace.

10. Haris Rauf (Fast Bowler)

Haris brings pace and aggression to Pakistan’s attack. His ability to bowl at the death and break partnerships will be vital, especially against New Zealand’s middle-order hitters. Rauf’s accurate yorkers and high pace can be game-changers in tight situations.

11. Abrar Ahmed (Spinner)

As Pakistan’s primary spin option, Abrar will have the responsibility of controlling the middle overs and picking up wickets. His mystery spin and variations could be the key in the latter stages, particularly when conditions start to assist spinners. With little backup in the spin department, his performance will ??be critical.

Also READ: Not Babar Azam! Ha??rbhajan Singh names a Pakistani star who can be a threat to India in Champions Trophy 2025

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As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, every participating team is focused on assembling a well-balanced squad capable of handling the high-stakes nature of the tournament. For Pakistan, one of the key concerns has been the identification of a reliable power hitter who can provide late-order fireworks and finish matches effectively. The role of a finisher is particularly crucial in limited-overs cricket, where the ability to accelerate in the final overs can often be the difference between a par score and a match-winning total. Former Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur has now weighed in on t??his important debate, revealing the player he believes can take up? this role for the Men in Green.

Mickey Arthur chooses the player for Pakistan’s power-hitter role in Champions Trophy

Arthur, who has an extensive coaching background and a deep unders??tanding of Pakistan’s cricketing culture, has backed Khushdil Shah as the ideal choice for the power-hitting position in the lower middle order.

Speaking on PakPassion YouTube channel, Arthur believed that Khushdil has emerged as Pakistan’s designated power hitter, solidifying his role in the lower middle order. Having worked closely with Khushdil in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), Arthur has been impressed by his aggressive strokeplay and ability to take on?? both pace ?and spin.

“I’ve just worked with Khusdil in the BPL and he was outstanding. What he provides is a power game but he also provides a left-handed option at the back end of the innings, which is quite crucial. He pulls his spin a little bit of spin, so it looks like he’s solidified that role, which is great,” Arthur said.

Also READ: Pakistan’s group-sta?ge rivals: Evaluating India, New Zealand & Bangladesh in Champions Trophy 2025

Pakistan’s roadmap for the prestigious tournament

Pakistan will kick off their Champions Trophy 2025 title defense with a high-stakes encounter against New Zealand on February 19, in Karachi. This match marks an important milestone as the host nation aims to replicate the success they achieved in 2017, when they triumphed under Sarfaraz Ahmed by defeating India in the final. This time, however, Mohammad Rizwan will take the reins as captain, leading Pakista??n in front of ??their home crowd.

The next major fixture for Pakistan is their much-anticipated clash with India on February 23, in Dubai. This match has always been a spectacle, given the fierce rivalry between the two nations. Both teams come into the contest with strong squads, and this encounter promises to be a thrilling one. Following the India clash, Pakistan will face Bangladesh on February 27. in Rawalp?indi. Bangladesh, though not as strong as the top-tier nations, has always posed ch??allenges to Pakistan with their aggressive approach.

Also READ: India’s group-stage rivals: Evaluating Pakistan, New Zealand & Ba??ngladesh in Champions Trophy 2025

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With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 fast approaching, cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly analyzing the prospects of the eight participating teams. Scheduled to be played in Pakistan and UAE from February 19 to March 9, this edition marks the tournament’s return after an eight-year hiatus. Pakistan, being the host of the global event, will enter the competition as one of the strongest contenders for?? the coveted title, given their current title r?eign in the prestigious competition.

Pakistan’s recent form in ODI cricket

Pakistan have shown a mixed yet promising performance in ODIs since their disappointing exit from the 2023 World Cup. They have won eight out of their last 12 matches, including a 2-1 series victory against Australia and a 2-0 clean sweep against South Africa, both away from home. These results highlight their potential to dominate in familiar conditions. However, their recent tri-series performance at home, where they lost two out of three matches to New Zealand, raised concerns about consistency. Despite this, the team’s ability to chase down a massive 353-run target against South Africa in the tri-series, led by Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha’s centuries, underscores t??heir resilience and batting depth.

Squad composition and key absences

Pakistan’s squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 is a blend of experience and emerging talent. Led by captain Rizwan, the team features stalwarts like Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Shaheen Afridi. However, the absence of in-form opener Saim Ayub due to injury has forced a reshuffle in the top order, with Babar likely to open alongside Fakhar. The recall of Khushdil Shah and Faheem Ashraf has drawn criticism, given their inconsistent performances. Additionally, the lack of a second specialist spinner, with Abrar Ahmed being the only option, could be a significant weakness on ??spin-friendly pitches.

Pakistan’s performance in Champions Trophy history

Pakistan have a storied history in the Champions Trophy, with their most notable achievement being their title win in 2017. Under Sarfaraz Ahmed’s captaincy, they defeated India in a memorable final, thanks to Fakhar Zaman’s century and a dominant bowling display. This victory remains a source of inspiration for? the current squad. Pakistan also reached the semi-finals in 2004 and 2009, showcasing their ability to ?perform in high-pressure tournaments.

Fixtures, venues, and opponents

Pakistan’s group-stage matches in Group A will be high-octane encounters against India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. They will open their campaign against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi, followed by a marquee clash against India on February 23 in Dubai. Their final group match will be against Bangladesh on February 27 in Rawalpindi. Playing at? home, Pakistan will benefit from familiar conditions and passionate local support, but the pressure to perform will be immense.

Also READ: CT 2025: Pakistan’s record in the?? history of ICC Champions Trophy

Evaluating Pakistan’s group-stage rivals

New Zealand

Strength: New Zealand are known for its consistency and adaptability in ICC tournaments. With experienced players like Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, and Daryl Mitchell, they possess a balanced batting lineup. Their pace attack, featuring Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry, adds depth, while Mitchell Santner’s spin provides control in the middle overs.

Weakness: The absence of Tim Southee and Trent Boult leaves their pace attack relatively inexperienced. Additional??ly, their middle order sometimes struggles to accelerate in crucial moments, which could be a vulnerability in high-pressure games.

Threat: New Zealand’s disciplined bowling and strategic gameplay make them a dangerous oppone??nt. Their ability to exploit swing-friendly conditions could trouble Pakistan’s top order.

India

Strength: India boast a formidable batting lineup featuring Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill. Their spin attack, led by Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja, is one of the best in the world. Despite Jasprit Bumrah’s absence, their depth in talent make??s them a? strong contender.

Weakness: The lack of a reliable fifth bowling option and the inexperience of their pace att?ack without Bumrah could be exploited. Additionally, their history of faltering in knockout stages remains a concern?.

Threat: India’s spin-heavy strategy and ability to dominate in subcontinent-like conditions in Dubai pose a significant challenge. Their recent 3-0 series win over England highlights their form and confidence.

Bangladesh

Strength: Bangladesh’s strength lie in their bowling attack, featuring Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Mustafizur Rahman. Their experienced players like Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur Rahim provide stability in the middle order.

Weakness: Inconsistency in batting and the lack of power hitters in the lower order are major weaknesses. Their recent ODI form, including losses to Afghanistan and West Indies, raises concerns.

Threat: Bangladesh’s ability to exploit spin-friendly conditions and their improved ?fielding could make them a tricky opponent, especially if their top order fires.

Also READ: ?CT 2025: New Zealand’s record in ICC Champions Trophy? history

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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to bring intense cricketing action, with Pakistan and the UAE hosting the prestigious event. Fans are eagerly anticipating high-voltage encounters, especially with top teams battling for glory. As Pakistan prepares to host a major ICC tournament for the first time since 1996, the excitement is at an all-time high. The tournament, sc?heduled to begin on February 19, promises thrilling matches and fierce rivalries.

Younis Khan picks Pakistan’s match winner in Champions Trophy 2025

Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan termed Fakhar Zaman as the key player who could lead Pakistan to success in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Yo?unis emphasized Zaman’s ability to rise to the occasion in crucial matches, citing his history of delivering m??atch-winning performances in high-pressure situations.

He specifically pointed out Fakhar’s fearless batting approach, which has often given Pakista??n strong starts in major tournaments. Younis also recalled Fakh?ar’s heroics in the 2017 Champions Trophy final against India, where he scored a remarkable century to guide Pakistan to their maiden title.

“Zaman could play a pivotal role in leading Pakistan to victory with a memorable innings, as he has done in the past,” Younis said, as quoted by Cricket Pakistan.

Also READ: Fakhar Zaman picks 3 Indian player??s to watch out for in the Champions Trophy 2025

Younis Khan backs Pakistan’s balanced squad for the global event

Younis reckoned that the national team has a well-rounded squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. He emphasized the presence of experienced and high-quality batters like Fakhar, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan, who have been consistent performers for Pakistan in recent years. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of the pace duo—Shaheen Shah Afridi and?? Naseem Shah—who will play a crucial role in leading Pakistan’s bowling attack.

“The team selected for the Champions Trophy is fairly well-balanced. We have experienced and top-quality batsmen like Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan. On the bowling front, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah will be essential fast bowlers for Pakistan,” he added.

Also READ: Not Babar Azam! Harbhajan Singh n??ames a Pakistani star who can be a threat to India in Champions Trophy 2?025

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With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 fast approaching, cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly analyzing the prospects of the eight participating teams. Scheduled to be played in Pakistan and Dubai from February 19 to March 9, this edition marks the tournament’s return after an eight-year hiatus. India, as always,? will enter the competition as one of the strongest contenders for the ??coveted title, given their recent dominance in white-ball cricket.

India’s form and recent performances

India have been in exceptional form in limited-overs cricket over the past two years. Their journey in ICC tournaments has been remarkable, having rea?ched the? final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 and then securing a historic victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. This consistency in major tournaments has further solidified their reputation as a top-tier team in global cricket.

However, their ODI journey since the ?2023 World Cup final loss to Australia has been a mixed bag. India has played only nine ODIs across three bilateral series:

• December 2023: A second-string Indian side defeated South Africa 2-1 in South Africa, showcasing their depth in talent.
• August 2024: India, with a near full-strength squad, faced a surprising 2-0 defeat to Sri Lanka on turning pitches that exposed vulnerabilities.
• February 2025: In their final preparation before the Champions Trophy, India bounced back in style, clinching a dominant 3-0 series win over England.

These results indicate that while India ?remains a powerhouse, they have experienced fluctuations in form. Their ability to adapt to different conditions will be key in this tournament.

Squad composition and key absences

While India boasts a strong squad, they will have to contend with the absence of star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who failed to recover in time from a back injury. His absence will be a major blow, as he has been India’s premier fast bowler in all formats, particularly in ICC tournaments. Interestingly, India are the only team in the tournament carrying five spinners, indicating their strategy to capitalize on spin-friendly conditions in Dubai. With this approach, India will rely heavily on their spin department to create breakthroughs.

India’s champions trophy history

India have a rich history in the ICC Champions Trophy. They have won the tournament once outright, in 2013, under MS Dhoni’s captaincy, and shared the title with Sri Lanka in 2002 after rain washed out the final twice. However, they have also fac?ed heartbreak twice in the final:

• 2000: Lost to New Zealand in a thrilling final.
• 2017: Suffered a heavy defeat against Pakistan, a match remembered for Fakhar Zaman’s century and Pakistan’s dominant bowling.

India will look to add a third Champions Trophy title and erase the memories of their 2017 ??final loss, aiming to lift the trophy once again after 12 years.

India’s group-stage opponents

India have been placed in Group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand. All t??heir group-stage matches will be played in Dubai, where the conditions will favor batting but also offer assistance to spinners as the tournament?? progresses.

• February 20: India vs. Bangladesh – A crucial opening clash against a team that has troubled India in past ICC tournaments.
• February 23: India vs. Pakistan – The biggest showdown of the group stage, a high-pressure encounter that will test both teams.
• March 2: India vs. New Zealand – A must-win game against an opponent that has historically knocked India out of ICC events.

This group poses significant challenges, as all three oppo??nents br?ing different threats that could trouble India.

Pakistan: The arch-rivals with unpredictable potential

• Strengths

Pakistan remains one of India’s most formidable opponents in international cricket, and the rivalry between these two teams adds an extra layer of intensity to the Champions Trophy. Pakistan’s greatest strength lies in their fast-bowling attack, which has been their traditional weapon against top teams. Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf form a potent pace trio capable of dismantling any batting lineup, especially in conditions that offer seam and swing. Their spinners, led by Shadab Khan, provide balance, while the middle order has shown glimpses of consistency with the likes of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan anchoring the innings.

• Weaknesses

However, Pakistan’s major weakness is their batting inconsistency under pressure. Despite possessing talented batters, they have often struggled in high-stakes matches, especially against India in ICC events. The m?iddle order has been a concern, with frequent collapses exposing their inability to build partnerships. Their fielding has also been a long-standing issue, often costing them crucial matches due to dropped catches and misfields.

• Threats

The biggest threat Pakistan poses to India is their ability to perform unpredictably. Historically, they have been kno?wn to pull off stunning victories when least expected, such as their triumph in the 2017 Champions Trophy final against India. If their bowling attack finds early breakthroughs, they can put India’s top order under immense pressure. Additionally, if Babar Azam plays a captain’s knock or the all-rounders step up, Pakistan could prove to be India’s toughest challenge in the group stage.

Also READ: CT 2025: Pakistan’s record in the history of ICC?? Champions Trophy

Bangladesh: A rising force with spin dominance

• Strengths

Bangladesh have evolved from being underdogs to becoming a competitive force in white-ball cricket. Their strength lies in their ability to exploit subcontinent conditions with a well-rounded bowling attack that includes world-class spinner such as Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Their pace attack, featuring Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman, provides additional variety and skill in the death overs. Additionally, their batting lineup has matured over the years, with Najmul Hossain Shanto and veteran Mahmudullah capable ?of anchoring innings and accelerating when needed.

• Weaknesses

One of Bangladesh’s weaknesses is their inability to consistently close out matches against stronger teams. W??hile they have shown flashes of brilliance, they ha??ve often faltered under pressure in ICC tournaments, failing to convert promising starts into victories. Their middle order sometimes struggles against high-quality pace, and their lower order lacks the firepower needed to finish matches strongly. Mental resilience in crunch situations remains a work in progress.

• Threats

The biggest threat Bangladesh poses to India is their ability to exploit spin-friendly conditions. If the pitch assists spinners, they can put India’s batting lineup under significant pressure. Additionally, their fielding has improved in recent years, and their a?bility to create breakthroughs through disciplined bowling could cause trouble. India cannot afford to take them lightly, as Bangladesh has proven capable of defeating top teams in global tournaments.

New Zealand: The consistently dangerous competitors

• Strengths

New Zealand has been one of the most consistent teams in ICC tournaments, often reaching the knockout stages with their well-balanced approach. Their biggest strength is their adaptability to different conditions and their ability to perform as a cohesive unit rather than relying on individual brilliance. Their pace attack, featuring Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears and Lockie Ferguson, is among the best in the world, capable of swinging the ball both ways and troubling top-order batters. Their batting, led by Kane Williamson, Devon Conway and Glenn Phillips, is structu??red around stability and aggression when required.

• Weaknesses

However, New Zealand’s weakness lies in t??heir struggles against high-quality spin bowling, especially on slow surfaces. Their middle order sometimes fails to accelerate in crucial moments, leading to underwhelming totals. Additionally, while they possess quality pacers, their fifth-bowling option can sometimes be a vulnerability, especially if one of their primary bowlers has an off day.

• Threats

The major threat New Zealand?? poses to India is their ability to outthink opponents strategically. They have a history of knocking India out of ICC tournaments, such as the 2019 World Cup semi-final and the 2021 World Test Championship final. Their disciplined bowling attack, combined with their ability to chase down targets methodically, makes them a dangerous opponent. If the conditions favor swing and seam movement, India’s batters will need to be cautious against Boult and Southee in the powerplay overs.

Also READ: CT 2025: New Zealand’s ?record in ICC Champions Troph??y history

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A fresh controversy erupted ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025 after a video surfaced on social media, allegedly showing the absence of the Indian flag at Karachi’s National Stadium. Fans quickly pointed out that while the flags of other participating nations were displayed at the venue, India‘s flag was missing, sparking widespread debate and surprise. The exact reason behind its absence remains unclear, but speculation suggests it could be because India decided to play all their Champions Trophy matches in Dubai. The incident has fueled discussions online, with many questioning the rationale behind the omission.

No Indian flag at the National Stadium

The Karachi Stadium is set to host matches featuring New Zealand, South Africa, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and England during the upcoming Champions Trophy. However, just days before the tournament is scheduled to begin, a video surfaced from the venue, showing the flags of participating nations prominently displayed. The footage quickly gained attention as fans noticed the absence of the Indian flag, sparking widespread debate and speculation. Many questioned whether this was an intentional decision by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) or a mere o??versight. The incident has added an unexpected layer of controversy to the build-up of the prestigious tournament.

Here’s the video

No Indian flag in Karachi: As only the Indian team faced security issues in Pakistan and refused to play Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan, the PCB removed the Indian flag from the Karachi stadium while keeping the flags of the other guest playing nations. pic.twitter.com/rjM9LcWQXs

— Arsalan (@Arslan1245) February 16, 2025

Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Yuvraj, Sidhu, Inzamam and Afri?di make India vs Pakistan predictio??n

India’s refusal to tour Pakistan leads to hybrid model

The Indian cricket team’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy led to a major shift in the tournament’s format, forcing the PCB and the International Cricket Council (ICC) to adopt a hybrid model. As part of the agreement, India will play all its matches, including the semi-final and final, if they qualify in Dubai. The decision came after extensive negotiations between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), PCB, and ICC? to find a workable solution. In a reciprocal arrangement, Pakistan’s national team will also avoid playing matches in ICC events hosted by India in the coming years. This compromise aims to maintain the smooth conduct of global tournaments despite the ongoing political tensions. While the hybrid model resolves immediate concerns, it further underscores the deep-rooted challenges surrounding cricketing ties between the two nations.

Also Read: Beating India or Champions Trophy 2025 glory? Pakistan’s Salman Agha reveals? his top priori??ty

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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to begin on February 19, with matches scheduled in Pakistan and the UAE. The return of this marquee event after eight years has generated im??????????????????????????mense excitement among cricket fans worldwide. Eight teams will battle it out for the prestigious trophy, and the tournament promises thrilling ?encounters between the best sides in world cricket.

India-Pakistan clash: The most anticipated match of the tournament

Among the high-profile fixtures, the clash between India and Pakistan is expected to be one of the most thrilling games of the tournament. The arch-rivals have had a long-standing rivalry, making their encounters?? a spectacle for cricket enthusiasts. While India has dominated Pakistan in recent ICC events, the unpredictable nature of the contest keeps fans on the edge of their seats.

Harbhajan Singh picks a Pakistan star who can take the game away from India

Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh recently shared his views on the upcoming India vs Pakistan match, calling it “overhyped” and stating that the gap in quality between the two teams makes it a one-sided affair. However, he acknowledged that one Pakistani batter could pose a significant challenge for India—Fakhar Zaman.

“India and Pakistan. You heard it right—this is an overhyped match. There is nothing in it. Look at their main batters. Their star batter is Babar Azam, and his average against India is 31. A top batter should average around 50. Then there is Rizwan, a good player, but his average against India is 25. Fakhar Zaman, their only full-time opener, has an average of 46. It’s a good average. Fakhar can take the game away from India,” Harbhajan said, as quoted by Times Now.

Also READ: Beating India or Champions Trophy 2025 glory? Pa??kistan’s Salman Agha reveals his top priority

Harbhajan raises doubts over Pakistan’s ability to give a fight to India

The former cricketer also expressed doubts about Pakistan’s ability to challenge India, stating that their batting lineup lacks the depth and consistency needed to compete at the highest level.

“Faheem Ashraf averages 12.5! I don’t think he will be a big threat. Saud Shakeel has an average of 8 against India. Looking at their batting lineup, I don’t get the confidence that this team will even fight,” he added.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Yuvraj, Sidhu, Inzamam and Afridi mak??e India vs Pakistan predic?tion

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Pakistan vice-captain Salman Agha has shared his perspective on the much-awaited ICC Champions Trophy 2025, particularly the high-stakes clash between Pakistan and India. The prestigious tournament will commence on February 19 in Pakistan, with India’s matches set to take place in the Dubai. Among the most anticipated fixtures is the India-Pakistan encounter, scheduled for February 23 at the Dubai International Stadium.

Beating India or lifting the Champions Trophy? Pakistan’s Salman Agha settles the debate

While the match carries immense significance for both teams and their supporters, Salman believed that the bigger objecti?ve for Pakistan is to lift the Champions Trophy rather than solely focusing on defeating India. Speaking on the PCB? podcast, Salman highlighted the emotional weight of the India-Pakistan rivalry but stressed the importance of maintaining a broader perspective.

“The atmosphere of an India-Pakistan match is unlike any other. People call it the biggest game in the world, and the intensity is always at its peak. But at the end of the day, it is just one match in a tournament. Winning the Champions Trophy as a team should be our ultimate goal, rather than celebrating a single victory,” Salman stated.

Despite prioritizing the overall tournament goal, Salman did not downplay the significance of the Ind?ia-Pakistan contest and acknowledged the pressure that comes with it. While speaking about the highly anticipa?ted clash, he maintained that every player in the squad is eager to give their best against their arch-rivals. However, he reiterated that a single victory, no matter how significant, would not mean much if the team fails to win the tournament.

“Of course, we all want to win against India, and we will do everything we can to make it happen. I personally aim to give my best performance in that match. If we defeat India but fail to win the Champions Trophy, then there is no real benefit. But if, Allah forbid, we lose to India but go on to lift the trophy, that would be the biggest achievement,” Salman concluded.

Also READ: India or Pak??istan? ??Shikhar Dhawan predicts the potential winner of Champions Trophy 2025 clash in Dubai

Pakistan’s Roadmap in the Champions Trophy

With the focus firmly set on going the distance in the Champions Trophy, Pakistan will begin their campaign against New Zealand on February 19 before taking on India in Dubai on February 23. Their final group-stage match will be against Bangladesh on February 27, which could be crucial in determining their ??pathway to the knockout stage.

Under the leadership of Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan will be keen?? on making a strong statement, especially after their inconsi??stent performances in recent ICC events. Given their rich history in the Champions Trophy, having won the title in 2017 with a resounding victory over India, Pakistan will be eager to replicate that success and etch their name in the history books once again.

Also READ: India or Pakistan? Mohammad Amir predict?s the winner of the high-??voltage clash in Champions Trophy 2025

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Cricket’s fiercest rivalry is set to reignite as India and Pakistan prepare to face off in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, marking the tournament’s highly anticipated return since 2017. The marquee Group A showdown will unfold in Dubai on Feb??ruary 23, following a hybrid hosting model after India declined to travel to Pakistan, the official host nation. While political tensions dictate the venue, on-field fireworks are guaranteed, with legends from both sides weighing in on what promises to be a blockbuster encounter.

Hybrid hosting and historic context

The Champions Trophy, absent since Pakistan’s maiden title win over India in 2017, returns with heightened stakes. Pakistan retains hosting rig?hts, but India’s matches will be staged in Dubai, a compromise echoing the 2023 Asia Cup model. The India-Pakist??an clash, cricket’s most-watched fixture, will see Dubai’s ring of fire roar as fans globally tune in for a contest transcending sport.

Star-studded predictions fuel hype

Ahead of the duel, Star Sports assembled a glittering panel – featuring India’s Yuvraj Singh and Navjot Singh Sidhu alongside Inzamam-ul-Haq and Shahid Afridi of Pakistan – to dissect key questions simmering among fans.

Top-scorer and wicket-taker picks

• Highest run-scorer: Yuvraj and Sidhu backed Indian stars Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma, respectively, while Afridi and Inzamam tipped Pakistan skipper Babar Azam.
• Leading wicket-taker: Yuvraj vouched for Mohammed Shami; Sidhu predicted an Indian spinner. Afridi and Inzamam favoured pace spearheads Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, respectively.

X-factors and emerging talents

• Match-defining moments: Yuvraj highlighted Hardik Pandya’s clutch prowess, Sidhu pointed to Rishabh Pant’s flair. Afridi and Inzamam bet on Mohammad Rizwan’s grit and Fakhar Zaman’s big-stage pedigree.
• Young players to watch: Gill and mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy earned Indian nods, while Pakistan’s rising star Saud Shakeel drew unanimous praise from Afridi and Inzamam.

Also READ: KL Rahul OUT, Rishabh Pan?t IN! Deep Dasgupta p??icks India’s best playing XI for Champions Trophy 2025

Balanced rivalry or tactical edge?

The experts split on team advantages. Yuvraj cited Dubai’s conditions favouring Pakistan, while Sidhu lauded India’s “balanced�?arsenal. Inzamam deemed the sides “equal,�?emphasizing match-day intensity. Afridi, reflecting on Pakistan’s 2011 World Cup loss, stressed body language: “After India’s first wicket, their energy shifted�?it’s about overpowering the opponent mentally.�?/p>

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙄𝙨 𝙊𝙣! 🇮🇳🆚🇵🇰 Ahead of #INDvPAK in #ChampionsTrophy, #YuvrajSingh, #NavjotSinghSidhu, #ShahidAfridi and #InzamamulHaq take their picks, in a fun, rapid-fire round! 💥

Who will ace this #GreatestRivalry? ✍�?/p>

'𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗚𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗦𝗧 𝗥𝗜𝗩𝗔𝗟𝗥𝗬�?pic.twitter.com/qzhGr8ovvy

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 16, 2025

Anticipation builds for a legacy clash

With diplomatic hurdles sidelining bilateral cricket, the Champions Trophy offers a rare glimpse of this storied rivalry. As Dubai gears up for February’s spectacle, predictions and past ghosts – like Afridi’s 2011 reference – add layers to a contest where pride and history collide. Whether it’s Gill’s elegance, Shaheen’s yorkers, or a rookie’s breakout moment, one truth remains: in India vs Pakistan, cricket always wins.

Also READ: Babar Azam at No. 3 – Aakash Chopra picks Pakistan’s playing XI for the Champions Trophy 2025

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