The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is set to be a thrilling showdown between two cricketing giants, Pakistan and India. On Sunday at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, these two rival nations will lock horns in what promises to be an intense match.
Pakistan, who are second favourites for the tournament, face their arch-rivals India after a surprise defeat by New Zealand in their opening match. This has raised concerns about Pakistan’s ability to lift the trophy on home soil. The host nation’s tendency to implode at any stage in matches and series has led to a reputation that precedes them.
On the other hand, India is tipped to win the tournament based on their consistency since 2017. They have key match-winning players like Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi but will have to overcome their own off-field issues and internal problems in order to succeed.
The two teams have a history of intense rivalry and competition with each other, which should make for an exciting match. With the World Cup winners Australia already having suffered a shock defeat, India is well-positioned to deny Pakistan back-to-back titles.
As both teams prepare for this crucial match, their squads are filled with talented players who will do everything possible to secure victory. The stage is set for an electrifying clash that promises to be an unforgettable experience for cricket fans worldwide.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2025/2/21/icc-champions-trophy-2025-pakistan-vs-india-start-team-news-preview