Arch-rivals India and Pakistan are set to face off today in Dubai in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The match carries significant weight, especially for Pakistan, which is on the brink of elimination following a lackluster performance in its opening game.
India commenced their campaign with a convincing six-wicket victory over Bangladesh. Opener Shubman Gill's unbeaten 101* and Mohammed Shami's five-wicket haul were instrumental in the win. In contrast, Pakistan suffered a 60-run defeat against New Zealand, with their batting lineup failing to chase down a target of 321 runs. Captain Babar Azam faced criticism for his cautious 64 off 90 balls, which many felt lacked the necessary aggression.
Historically, Pakistan holds a superior head-to-head record against India in ODIs, with 73 wins to India's 57 out of 135 matches. However, recent encounters have favored India, who have emerged victorious in the last five meetings. In the Champions Trophy context, Pakistan leads with three wins to India's two, including a memorable triumph in the 2017 final.
Pakistan faces a significant setback with the loss of opener Fakhar Zaman due to an abdominal injury sustained during the New Zealand match. Imam-ul-Haq has been called up as his replacement.
On the Indian side, despite the absence of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, the bowling attack remains formidable, with Mohammed Shami leading the charge.
For Pakistan, this match is a must-win to keep their semi-final hopes alive. A loss would not only edge them closer to elimination but also dent morale, considering the historical and political significance of India-Pakistan clashes. India, on the other hand, will aim to secure a semi-final berth with a victory, further asserting their dominance in the tournament.
Indian vice-captain Shubman Gill emphasized treating the match like any other, stating, "We play every match to win... this is no different for us." Meanwhile, Pakistan's Aaqib Javed acknowledged the pressure inherent in such fixtures, noting, "What is an India-Pakistan game without pressure? That is actually the beauty of it.”
