Pakistan and India are facing off in a high-stakes Champions Trophy 2025 match in Dubai. After losing their opener against New Zealand, Pakistan needs a victory to keep their semi-final hopes alive. Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel have taken charge after early setbacks.
- Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel built a crucial 50-run partnership.
- Pakistan lost both openers early, including skipper Babar Azam.
- India started strong, with Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel striking in the powerplay.
- India won their first match against Bangladesh by six wickets.
- Pakistan must win to stay in the tournament.
Pakistan’s Early Setbacks
Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat first. However, Babar Azam, who started aggressively, was dismissed for 23 by Hardik Pandya. Chasing a delivery outside off-stump, Babar edged it to KL Rahul behind the stumps. Soon after, Imam-ul-Haq was run out by Axar Patel, leaving Pakistan struggling.
Rizwan and Shakeel Steady the Innings
After losing two quick wickets, Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel took control. The duo played cautiously, ensuring Pakistan reached 100 runs at the halfway stage. Shakeel’s composed approach complemented Rizwan’s experience, providing Pakistan with much-needed stability.
India’s Strong Bowling Attack
Harshit Rana and Kuldeep Yadav bowled tight spells, applying pressure on Pakistan’s middle order. Mohammed Shami, fresh from a five-wicket haul against Bangladesh, looked dangerous. India’s disciplined bowling made scoring difficult for Pakistan.
India’s Champions Trophy Record
India entered the match with confidence after defeating Bangladesh comfortably. Shubman Gill shined with a century, while Mohammed Shami became India’s leading wicket-taker in ICC ODI tournaments. Hardik Pandya continued his all-round form, proving crucial for India.
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy History
Pakistan has a better head-to-head record against India in Champions Trophy history, winning three out of five encounters. Their last victory came in the 2017 final, where Sarfaraz Ahmed led Pakistan to their first-ever Champions Trophy title.
Current Playing XIs
Pakistan:
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Babar Azam
- Saud Shakeel
- Mohammad Rizwan (C/WK)
- Salman Agha
- Tayyab Tahir
- Khushdil Shah
- Shaheen Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Haris Rauf
- Abrar Ahmed
India:
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- Axar Patel
- KL Rahul (WK)
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Harshit Rana
- Mohammed Shami
- Kuldeep Yadav
Pakistan needs a strong finish to post a competitive total. Their middle order must step up against India’s world-class bowling attack. On the other hand, India’s chase could be tricky, considering Dubai’s pitch conditions. A thrilling second half awaits cricket fans.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
