The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set for another historic India-Pakistan clash as the arch-rivals prepare to face off at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. While India looks to secure their semifinal spot following their victory against Bangladesh, Pakistan faces a must-win situation after their opening loss to New Zealand.
India enters the Group A encounter with momentum after a convincing six-wicket win over Bangladesh, highlighted by Shubman Gill’s ninth ODI century and Mohammed Shami’s impressive five-wicket haul. Captain Rohit Sharma’s return to form, evidenced by his crucial 41-run innings, has further bolstered India’s confidence.
“India will have a clear advantage in every way,” cricket analysts suggest, pointing to the team’s superior adaptation to conditions and recent performance metrics.
Pakistan, meanwhile, faces multiple challenges following their 60-run defeat to New Zealand. The team’s concerns include:
- Captain Babar Azam‘s criticized slow batting pace (64 off 90 balls)
- The absence of key opener Fakhar Zaman due to injury
- Questions over their bowling attack’s effectiveness after struggling against New Zealand
Team Compositions:
India is likely to maintain their winning combination, featuring:
- A strong spin trio of Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel
- The in-form pace attack led by Mohammed Shami and Harshit Rana
- A balanced batting lineup with Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli
Pakistan has made one forced change:
- Imam ul Haq replacing the injured Fakhar Zaman
- Middle-order hope resting on Khushdil Shah after his counter-attacking 69 in the opener
The last Champions Trophy encounter between these teams was the 2017 final, where Pakistan emerged victorious. However, current form and team dynamics suggest a different narrative for this crucial group stage match.
The match carries additional significance as India declined to travel to Pakistan for the tournament’s other venues in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, making this Dubai encounter even more anticipated.
