The much-awaited India vs Pakistan clash in the Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place on February 23 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. With India already securing a win against Bangladesh, another victory will confirm their spot in the semi-finals. However, Pakistan’s unpredictable nature makes this match even more thrilling.
- India might opt for four spinners due to the spin-friendly pitch.
- Dubai’s surface appears dry, favoring spin bowlers.
- Varun Chakravarthy could replace a pacer in the playing XI.
Lo Bhai ICC ne Bola tha k Dubai main fresh pitches hon gi. Yahan to Bhai Squares Bhi dry hn aur pitches fully shaved hn
— 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗶𝗱 𝗭𝗮𝗳𝗳𝗮𝗿 🇵🇰🇵🇸 (@iam_JZK) February 21, 2025
Pori ILT20 main Yahan 1 spinner khelta Tha But ab 3 spinners Ki pitches ready hogyi hn. Ab fast bowlers Bhi slower krein bachna Hai to. WAH ICC WAH #CT2025 pic.twitter.com/7AJxskg5il
Why India May Play 4 Spinners
In the India vs Bangladesh match, batting under lights was tougher than expected. The Bangladeshi spinners slowed down the scoring rate when the ball got softer, making it difficult for the Indian batters to find momentum.
Recent Dubai pitch visuals reveal that the surface is completely shaved off, indicating a dry track that could assist spinners throughout the game. This could influence India’s team selection against Pakistan.
Probable Changes in India’s Playing XI
If the pitch remains spin-friendly, Rohit Sharma may consider including Varun Chakravarthy instead of a pacer. Chakravarthy, who performed well against England, could exploit the conditions.
Possible Bowling Combination:
- Spin Attack: Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy
- Pace Options: Mohammed Shami, Hardik Pandya (all-rounder)
Who Might Be Dropped?
If India chooses four spinners, a frontline pacer like Harshit Rana could be benched. Shami will likely lead the pace attack, while Hardik Pandya can contribute with 10 overs if needed.
India’s strategy will heavily depend on pitch conditions and how the team management reads the surface before the match. If the pitch remains dry, the inclusion of an extra spinner could be the best tactical move against Pakistan’s batting lineup.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
