Cricket fans across the globe are now anxiously waiting for the clash of the Titans- India vs Pakistan in the ongoing ICC Champions trophy match scheduled to be played on February 23, 2025.

It will be a test of the nerves for both team India and their arch-rivals Pakistan.

However, India will enter with momentum from a 3-0 ODI series win against England and a clinical six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their Champions Trophy opener, powered by Shubman Gill’s unbeaten 101 runs.

At present, Pakistan seems to be struggling with inconsistency - despite winning away ODI series against Australia and South Africa, they’ve lost three consecutive matches including a 60-run defeat to New Zealand.

India vs Pakistan match carries knockout implications. A Pakistan loss would likely eliminate the defending champions early.

Statistics

When it comes to overall ICC tournaments, history favors India as they seem well placed so far with a 17-4 lead over Pakistan across World Cups and Champions Trophy encounters. However, as far as the Champions Trophy is concerned, Pakistan has an edge with a 3-2 record. Their 2017 Champions Trophy final victory remains one of their biggest wins against India in an ICC event.

Also Read: Champions Trophy: Pakistan has advantage over India, says Yuvraj Singh

Venue Advantage

While Pakistan defeated India at this very venue in an ICC event, the overall ODI records at the Dubai International Stadium are against them. Pakistan has played 21 ODI matches here, winning only 8 and losing 13. On the other hand, India remains unbeaten at this venue, winning six out of seven games, with their only non-win being a tie against Afghanistan.

Rohit, Kohli and Subhman vs fiery pace trio of Pakistan

The India-Pakistan match is going to be a thriller as the top batsmen of team India- Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and others will be up against Pakistan’s fierce pace attack of Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, and Haris Rauf. Team India’s middle order will also be tested at the high-octane match with Pakistan.

Squad Dynamics and Injury Impacts

Pakistan suffered a major setback with Fakhar Zaman’s tournament-ending injury, replaced by Imam-ul-Haq who averages just 28.6 against India.

India field a balanced squad featuring resurgent Mohammed Shami and Hardik Pandya’s all-round prowess.