The highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 ?is set to kick off on Fe?bruary 19, bringing together the top eight cricketing nations to compete for the prestigious title.

This edition of the tournament, being hosted primarily by Pakistan, will see India playing all its matches in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) under a hybrid model due to political tensions. As the defending champions from the 2013 edition, India is entering this tournament with a strong squad, led by captain Rohit Sharma and vice-captain Shubman Gill. With a blend of experience ?and youth, the Men in Blue are d??etermined to reclaim the trophy and stamp their dominance in world cricket once again.

India’s key player for the Champions Trophy 2025

Recently, former Pakistani wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal sh??ared his thoughts on Hardik Pandya during a live sessio??n on his YouTube channel.

“The main player in the Indian team, without him the playing XI is incomplete is Hardik Pandya,” Kamran said.

Akmal further emphasized how vital Pandya’s role is to India’s chances in the upcoming Champions Trophy. “He is my favourite, he is remarkable with the bat and the ball. He finishes the game as well,” Akmal concluded.

His comments highlight the significant impact Hardik has on India’s overall strategy??. His performances are not just valuable, but indispensable, especially in high-pressure tournament matches.

Also READ: Kamran Akmal picks his Pakistan squad for the Champions Trophy 2025; Saim Ayub fin?ds place

Memorable performances against Pakistan in the ODI format

Hardik has had several memorable performances against Pakistan from 2017 to 2023. In T20Is, he played 7 matches and scored 209 runs at an impressive average of 69.66, with a best individual score of 87. His strike rate in these encounters was 132.27, show?casing his ability to acceler??ate the innings. With the ball, Hardik contributed as well, picking up crucial wickets, with figures of 2/34 being one of his standout performances.

He bowled 41.5 overs across these games, maintaining an economy rate of 5.13 and an average of 26.87. Hardik’s versatility allowed him to excel both with the bat and the ball, making him a key player in India’s strategy against Pakistan during this period. His performances included impactful knocks, tight bowling spells, and critical breakthroughs, which significantly contributed to India’s successes in key matches against their arch-rivals.

Also READ: Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman predict??s his four semifinalists of Champio??ns Trophy 2025

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As Pakistan gears up to host the prestigious ICC Champions Trophy 2025 alongside the United Arab Emirates (UAE), excitement and ant?icipation have gripped the nation’s cricketing circles. Set to kick off on February 19, the tournament will culminate with the final on March 9, offering Pakistan a golden opportunity to reclaim international glory.

ICC Champions Trophy 2025

The Champions Trophy campaign for Pakistan will with a high-stakes clash against New Zealand at Karachi’s National Stadium on February 19. This will be followed by the highly anticipated showdown against arch-rivals India in Dubai on February 23, before facing Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27. Pakistan will be determined to perform better this time after recent early exits in the ODI World Cup 2023 and T20 World Cup 2024. Hosting the tournament on home soil brings an added layer of motivation, and the Men in Green will ai?m to leverage this advantage in their bid to reclaim the title.

Kamran Akmal predicts Pakistan’s 15-member squad 

Former cricketer Kamran Akmal’s move of unveiling his 15-man squa??d for the Champions Trophy on social media platform X has stirred significant debate among cricket analysts and fans. The selection highlights key inclusions that could shape Pakistan’s chances in the tournament.

Among the standout selections are left-handed openers Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub. Fakhar’s experience and aggressive style at the top are crucial for Pakistan’s opening combination. Meanwhile, Ayub’s inclusion sparks questions due to his injury during Pakistan’s recent Test campaign in South Africa. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has opted to send Ayub to London for specialized treatment, leaving doubts about his availability for the Champions Trophy. Kamran further included Iman-Ul-Haq as another opener in his squad for Pakistan.

Also READ: Pakistan�?�s Fakhar Zaman predicts his fou??r semifinalists of Champions Trophy 2025

Captaincy and batting depth

Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan has been entrusted with leading the squad, a responsibility he carries with maturity and experience. The competition in the top order is intense, with Zaman, Saim and Imam vying for the opening spots. The middle order looks solid with stalwarts Babar Azam and Rizwan set to anchor at No. 3 and No. 4. Additionally, Kamran Ghulam, fresh off a stellar Test debut century, and powerful hitter Irfan Khan Niazi add depth to the batting lineup alongside all rounder Salman Ali Agha, giving Pakistan a well-rounded batting unit.

Strong bowling Attack with dependable spin options

Pakistan’s pace attack is spearheaded by the fiery Shaheen Afridi, supported by Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf, who provide pace and aggression. With Mohammad Hasnain and all-rounder Aamer Jamal as backup options, the pace attack remains versatile and threatening across various conditions. The spin attack is equally formidable with left-arm chinaman bowler Sufiyan Muqeem and leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, wh?o add strategic flexibility to Pakistan’s bowling options.

My 15 men 🇵🇰 squad for #CT2025
1.Fakhar Zaman
2.Saim Ayub
3.Babar Azam
4.M.Rizwan (c)
5.Salman Ali Agha
6.Kamran Ghulam
7.Aamer Jamal
8.Shaheen shah afridi
9.Haris Rauf
10.Naseem Shah
11.Abrar Ahmad
12.Imam ul Haq
13.Sufiyan Muqeem
14.M.Irfan Khan Niazi
15.M.Husnain
What’s yours?

— Kamran Akmal (@KamiAkmal23) January 15, 2025

Also READ: PCB unveils ticket prices fo??r Champions Trophy 2025 matches in Pakistan

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In the wake of Pakistan’s humiliating 10-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in the first Test at Rawalpindi, former wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal has publicly criticized the team’s performance and management. This historic loss marks Bangladesh’s first victory over Pakistan in Test cricket, a result that has left many former players and fans in shock.

Kamran Akmal slams Pakistan cricket team 

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Akmal did not hold back, expressing his disappointment with the players’ lack of learning from past mistakes. He highlighted that had Mohammad Rizwan not scored a half-century, Pakistan could have f?aced an innings defeat??.

“Ye to Rizwan ne 50 kiya aur scoreboard chalaya warna innings se haarte. Ye itni buri haar hai ki bhooli nahi jaegi. Aap kisi ka bura sochoge to aapke saath bhi bura hi hoga. (Had Rizwan not scored a 50 and ran the scoreboard, you’ve would’ve lost by an innings).

“Aapne pichle 5 saalon se kuch nahi seekha. Aap Zimbabwe se haar gaye. Pichle saal aap Asia Cup se baahar ho gaye th. Abhi aap itna zaleel hue hain world cup me, Pakistan cricket ka mazaak ban chuka hai globally.” (You haven’t learned anything in the last 5 years. You lost to Zimbabwe. Last year, you were eliminated from Asia Cup. You were humiliated at the T20 World Cup. Made a complete mockery of Pakistan cricket).

“It was a difficult time for Bangladesh but their batters scored runs”: Akmal

Akmal praised the Bangladesh team for their resilience, particularly noting Mushfiqur Rahim’s outstanding innings of 191 runs, which played a crucial role in setting up the victory. He emphasized that Bangladesh’s batters capitalized on their opportunities, while Pakistan’s players appeared to lack seriousness and commitment.

“It was a difficult time for Bangladesh but their batters scored runs. They had to save the Test, and they not only did that but also won the game. They basically exposed Pakistan cricket. And our players were batting like club cricketers. Sorry, not even club cricketers play like this. The approach was poor. Players are having a laugh in the dressing room, there is no seriousness because they know nobody will ask anything. It seems that you are playing for fun,” Akmal added.

Also READ: PAK vs BAN – Netizens go wild over Bangladesh’s historic Test triumph against Pakistan

The defeat has sparked widespread criticism of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the team’s management, with other former cricketers like Shahid Afridi and Ahmad Shahzad also voicing their frustrations.

A 10-wicket defeat raises serious questions about the decision to prepare this type of pitch, select four fast bowlers and leave out a specialist spinner. This to me clearly shows a lack of awareness about home conditions. That said, you cannot take the credit away from�?/p>

— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) August 25, 2024

پاکستان ٹیم کا تاریخی زوال شروع ہو چکا ہے۔ قوم کے ساتھ بار بار جھوٹ بولا گیا اور آج بنگلہ دیش سے تاریخی ذلّت آمیز شکست کے بعد پھر سے گھناؤنا مذاق کیا گیا۔ قوم اب کس سے جواب طلب کرے اور کس کا گلا پکڑے؟ ان سب حالات کا اصل ذمےدار کون؟؟#PAKvBAN pic.twitter.com/AdXZhy3z7n

— Ahmad Shahzad 🇵🇰 (@iamAhmadshahzad) August 25, 2024

As Pakistan prepares for the second ??Test, scheduled to begin on August 30, ther??e is a pressing need for the team to regroup and address the issues that have led to this disappointing performance.

Also WATCH: Nahid Rana dismisses Babar Azam with?? an epic delivery on Day 5 of the first PAK vs BAN Test

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Ex-Pakistan cricketer Kamran Akmal has disclosed details about a heated conversation with former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh following the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2024 match on Saturday (June 6). Akmal revealed that he apologized to Harbhajan for his remarks made a month ago, emphasizing that he n??ever intended to offend anyone.

Social media spat: Kamran Akmal and Harbhajan Singh

The dialogue between the two crickete??rs took place a month after a contentious exchange on social media.

Akmal had made racially insensitive comments about Arshdeep Singh’s religion, prompting a strong response from Harbhajan, who urged Akmal to educate himself on Sikh history before making such remarks. Akmal responded with an apology to Harbhajan and the Sikh community. He reiterated that his comments were never meant to hurt anyone’s religious sentiments.

“I made a mistake, and that was the only topic being discussed. It was never my intention, and I can never think negatively about anyone’s religion. I have made that clear. It should be done because I am younger, they are seniors and a great off-spinner in Indian and world cricket,” Kamran was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

Also READ:?? ‘My words were inappropriate and ?disrespectful�? Kamran Akmal apologize to Harbhajan Singh and the Sikh community

Babar Azam discussion

During their conversation in Birmingham, Akmal also brought up the criticism faced by Pakistan captain Babar Azam from fans and pundits. Harbhajan had previously struggled to contain his laughter during a discussion comparing Babar with the legendary Brian Lara.

Akmal asserted that despite the class difference between Lara and Babar, mocking fellow cricketers is inappropriate. He conveyed this sentiment to Harbhajan, who agreed that such situations should not have occurred from either side. Akmal stressed the importance of respecting each player’s unique talents and contributions to the game.

“Then we talked, and you might have seen Babar being mocked. No doubt, Babar is also a great batsman in Pakistan cricket; he has scored the most hundreds for Pakistan. No doubt, Brian Lara and Babar’s class don’t match, and they shouldn’t be compared. But as cricketers, we shouldn’t mock anyone. So I talked about it, and he (Harbhajan) also agreed that it shouldn’t have happened from his side either,” Kamran concluded.

Also READ: Mohsin Naqvi breaks silence on Babar Azam’s? future as?? Pakistan captain after T20 WC humiliation

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Imam-ul-Haq, the Pakistan batter, recently unveiled his all-time ODI XI for the Pakistan Nati?onal Cricket Team. His selection reflects a blend of iconic players spanning different eras of Pakistan cricket.

Opening prowess

For the opening pair, Imam chose Saeed Anwar and Babar Azam. Saeed, widely regarded as one of Pakistan’s best batters ever, earned his place at the top due to his prolific run-scoring and consistency. Babar, current captain of the team and one of the finest ODI batters globally, was selected to open alongside Anwar, primarily because of his outstanding performances over the past seven years.

“Since it was very difficult for me to set [him] in the middle order. So, I went for Babar Azam as the opener. The way he has performed in ODI cricket for the last seven years his performances for Pakistan are very good,” Imam was quoted as saying by A Sports.

Middle order dominance

Moving to the middle order, Imam picked Javed Miandad, Inzamam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Yousuf. These three stalwarts were pivotal in Pakistan’s success in ODIs, providing stability and match-winning performances throughout their careers.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: India vs Pakistan match set on March 1 in Lahore; BCCI yet to con??firm

Captain Marvel

Imran Khan, the legendary all-rounder who led Pakistan to their maiden World Cup victory in 1992, was chosen as the captain of the team. Known for his exceptional leadership and all-round skills, Imran Khan’s influence on Pakistan cricket in the 80s and 90s was immense.

Safe hands and power with the bat

In the wicketkeeper-batter role, Imam opted for Kamran Akmal. Despite other options like Moin Khan and Sarfaraz Khan, Akmal’s ability to deliver match-winning innings in ODIs swayed Imam’s decision.

“I’ll go with Kamran Akmal as the wicketkeeper-batsman. It was a bit tricky for me. There were a lot of options like Moin bhai and Saifi bhai but I’ll go with Kamran Akmal because he has a lot of match-winning performances in ODIs,” Imam concluded.

Bowling arsenal

Turning to the bowling department, Imam selected Saqlain Mushtaq, Mohammad Asif, Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis. Saqlain, known for his mastery of spin bowling and invention of the “doosra,” provided variety to the attack. Asif, renowned for his accuracy and ability to trouble batter, complemented the lethal pace duo of Akram and Younis, who are considered among the most feared bowlers in cricket history.

The 12th Man

Shahid Afridi, a dynamic all-rounder known for his explosive batting and effective leg-spin bowling, was named as the 12th man in Imam’s XI, highlighting his impact despite not making the starting lineup. While his son-in-law and Pakistan’s current leader of pace attack, Shaheen Afridi failed to make his place in the roaster.

Also READ: Ahmed Shehzad reveals his?? all time Pakistan XI; no place for Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi

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Former Pakistan cricketer Kamran Akmal has issued an apology to India veteran Harbhajan Singh and the Sikh community following backlash over a racist joke he made about the left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh.

Kamran Akmal takes an inappropriate jibe at Arshdeep Singh and the Sikh community

Akmal’s comments against Arshdeep were made during a panel discussion on ARY News during the T20 World Cup 2024 match between India and Pakistan in New York.

Akmal’s comment, which targeted Arshdeep as he was about to bowl the final over of Pakistan’s innings, sparked a massive uproar on social media.

“Kuch bhi ho sakta hai�?Dekhe last over karna Arshdeep Singh ne hai. Waise uska rhythm nahi laga. 12 baj gaye hai (Anything can happen. The last over will be bowled by Arshdeep Singh; he hasn’t looked in a great rhythm. And It is already 12),” Akmal said on the show.

Harbhajan, who has played numerous matches against Akmal, responded sharply to the insult, reminding him of the Sikh community’s glorious past and contributions.

“Lakh di laanat tere Kamraan Akhmal.. You should know the history of Sikhs before you open your filthy mouth. We Sikhs saved your mothers and sisters when they were abducted by invaders, the time invariably was 12 o’clock. Shame on you�?Have some Gratitude,” Harbhajan wrote on X.

Lakh di laanat tere Kamraan Akhmal.. You should know the history of sikhs before u open ur filthy mouth. We Sikhs saved ur mothers and sisters when they were abducted by invaders, the time invariably was 12 o’clock . Shame on you guys.. Have some Gratitude @KamiAkmal23 😡😡🤬 //t.co/5gim7hOb6f

— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) June 10, 2024

Also READ: ‘Ab inke muh mein chusni daalenge kya hum?’: Wasim Akram slams Pakistan after T20 World Cup loss to India

Kamran Akmal responds to Harbhajan Singh’s strong words

Realizing the gravity of his words, Akmal publicly apologized to Harbhajan and the Sikh?? community.

“I deeply regret my recent comments and sincerely apologize to Harbhajan Singh and the Sikh community. My words were inappropriate and disrespectful. I have the utmost respect for Sikhs all over the world and never intended to hurt anyone. I am truly sorry. #Respect #Apology,” tweeted Akmal.

I deeply regret my recent comments and sincerely apologize to @harbhajan_singh and the Sikh community. My words were inappropriate and disrespectful. I have the utmost respect for Sikhs all over the world and never intended to hurt anyone. I am truly sorry. #Respect #Apology

— Kamran Akmal (@KamiAkmal23) June 10, 2024

Talking about the match, India registered a thrilling six-run victory over Pakistan. Chasing a target of 120, Pakistan were restricted to 113/7, with Jasprit Bumrah delivering an impressive performance, taking three wickets for just?? 14 runs.

Also READ: “Goodbye forever, I’m done with this shit” – Pakistan celebs react to their team’s loss to India in T20 World Cup 2024

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During the highly anticipated India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2024 match on Sunday in New York, former Pakistani cricketer Kamran Akmal made a controversial comment about Indian fast bowler Arshdeep Singh, which sparked a heated backlash. Akmal’s remarks, perceived as racist and insensitive, targeted Arshdeep and his Sikh heritage, leading to widespread criticism from fans and players alike.

Kamran Akmal’s comment on Arshdeep Singh

While discussing the match on a live television show, Akmal made an inappropriate joke referencing the Sikh community. His comment was widely co??ndemned for perpetuating a derogatory stereotype about Sikhs.

“Kuch bhi ho sakta hai�?Dekhe last over karna Arshdeep Singh ne hai. Waise uska rhythm nahi laga. 12 baj gaye hai (Anything can happen. Arshdeep Singh will bowl in the last over; he hasn’t looked in a great rhythm. And It is already 12),” said Akmal.

Harbhajan Singh slams Kamran Akmal

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh swiftly responded to Akmal’s comments with a strongly-worded statement on social media. Harbhajan condemned Akmal’s remarks as ‘filthy’ and emphasized the bravery and humanitarian efforts of Sikhs, demanding respect and gratitude from Akmal instead of derogatory remarks.

Also READ: ‘Ab inke muh mein chusni daalenge kya hum?’ – Wasim Akram slams Pakistan after T20 World Cup loss to India

“Lakh di laanat tere Kamraan Akhmal. You should know the history of Sikhs before u open ur filthy mouth. We Sikhs saved ur mothers and sisters when they were abducted by invaders, the time invariably was 12 o’clock. Shame on you. Have some Gratitude,” Harbhajan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Lakh di laanat tere Kamraan Akhmal.. You should know the history of sikhs before u open ur filthy mouth. We Sikhs saved ur mothers and sisters when they were abducted by invaders, the time invariably was 12 o’clock . Shame on you guys.. Have some Gratitude @KamiAkmal23 😡😡🤬 //t.co/5gim7hOb6f

— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) June 10, 2024

Also READ: “Goodbye forever, I’m done with this shit” – Pakistan celebs react to their team’s loss to India in T20 World Cup 2024

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The upcoming India-Pakistan clash in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 has fans from both nations on the edge of their seats, as anticipation reaches fever pitch. Known for its electrifying atmosphere and intense rivalry, the match promises to be a spectacle that transcends the boundaries of sport. Fans are eagerly awaiting the showdown, with social media buzzing with predictions, discussions, and expressions of support for their respective teams. The histori??cal significance and the sheer intensity of the rivalry add layers of excitement, making this encounter one of the most highly anticipated matches in the cricketing calendar.

Kamran Akmal suggests a change in India’s batting order

Ahead of the mouth-watering clash, former Pakistani cricketer Kamran Akmal has voiced his concerns regarding India’s batting order. Akmal reckoned that India should make a crucial adjustment by placing Virat Kohli?? at No. 3 in the batting lineup, repl??acing him with Yashasvi Jaiswal as the opener.

“I don’t think the batting order is correct. Virat Kohli can take the pressure at No. 3 and finish the match. That is very important for Team India. Yashasvi Jaiswal should open the batting. Kohli should come at 3,�?/em> Akmal stated in a video on his YouTube channel.