The cricketing world is abuzz as arch-rivals India and Pakistan prepare to face off in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This high-stakes encounter is scheduled for February 23, 2025, at the Dubai International Stadium. Both teams are eager to assert their dominance in Group A, making this match a focal point of the tournament.
India enters the contest with momentum, having secured a convincing six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their opening match. Vice-captain Shubman Gill’s unbeaten 101 and Mohammed Shami’s five-wicket haul were instrumental in this triumph. Conversely, Pakistan faced a setback, losing to New Zealand by 60 runs in their first game.
Team News
India: The Indian squad boasts of some seasoned campaigners and emerging talents. However, they are without their star pacer, Jasprit Bumrah, who was sidelined due to a back injury. Despite this, the team’s depth in both batting and bowling remains formidable. All players from the current squad are available and fit to play, barring Rishabh Pant.
Pakistan: Led by Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan’s lineup features a potent fast-bowling trio: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf. The batting order, anchored by Babar Azam, aims to rebound from their previous defeat and showcase resilience against a strong Indian side.
Weather and Pitch Conditions
The Dubai International Stadium is known for its batting-friendly pitches, with spinners playing a crucial role as the game progresses. The weather forecast for February 23 predicts clear skies with temperatures ranging between 23°C to 11°C, ensuring ideal conditions for cricket.
Probable Playing XI
India
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Axar Patel
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Shami
- Arshdeep Singh
Pakistan:
- Saud Shakeel
- Babar Azam
- Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk)
- Usman Khan
- Salman Ali Agha
- Tayyab Tahir
- Khushdil Shah
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Haris Rauf
- Abrar Ahmed
Key Players
India:
Shubman Gill: The vice-captain’s recent unbeaten century against Bangladesh sums up his importance at the top of the order. His ability to anchor the innings will be pivotal.
Mohammed Shami: With a five-wicket haul in the previous match, Shami’s experience and skill with the new ball make him a vital asset, especially in Bumrah’s absence.
Pakistan
Babar Azam: Babar’s consistency and technique are crucial as the team’s premier batter. His performance often sets the tone for Pakistan’s batting efforts. He scored 64 in the last match.
Shaheen Shah Afridi: Leading the bowling attack, Afridi’s pace and swing can trouble any batting lineup. His early breakthroughs will be essential for Pakistan’s success.
Match Prediction: Who Will Win?
Considering current form and team compositions, India has a slight edge, especially given their recent victory and the depth of the batting lineup. However, Pakistan’s familiarity with UAE conditions and their potent bowling attack cannot be underestimated. The match is poised to be closely contested, with the outcome likely hinging on key moments and individual brilliance.
