One of the biggest rivalries in sports, the India vs Pakistan showdown is set to ignite once more as they meet in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai. The match will take place on Sunday, February 23 and it promises high drama and intense performances as players from both sides will be aiming to achieve the win in the most important match for them. Both the teams come with some massive strengths as well as the weak points, this match will be a promising one to watch. India have great batters like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma then Pakistan have Babar Azam. Similarly, PAK have the stregnts of Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi then India have their ‘Bengal Express’ Mohammed Shami. Let’s look at the key rivalries to watch in the IND vs PAK match in the Champions Trophy.
Shaheen Afridi vs Rohit Sharma
The battle between Shaheen Afridi and Rohit Sharma will be one of the biggest highlights. Rohit Sharma, who seeks to provide India with aggressive starts, has found it challenging against left-arm pacers, particularly in the early overs. And, Shaheen Afridi has a respectable track record against right-handed batters and has dismissed Rohit four times in previous encounters. As Rohit gears up to take on Shaheen, the initial overs will be crucial to watch.
Virat Kohli vs Abrar Ahmed
Virat Kohli is India’s biggest name currently, but just like every great batter, he too have vulnerabilities against leg-spin. Kohli will face a stern challenge in Abrar Ahmed, whose leg-spin could make it difficult for him. With Kohli being dismissed five times by leg-spinners in his last six innings, Abrar might use this weakness to give Pakistan some advantage.
Shubman Gill vs Naseem Shah
Shubman Gill’s recent form in ODI cricket has been impressive, he scored back to back century. His ability to anchor innings with ease is something very impressive. However, young Naseem Shah, known for his brisk pace and tactical swing deliveries, will be tasked with curtailing Gill’s influence early in the innings. This will be an important battle between two youngsters which might go for years to come.
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Babar Azam vs Mohammed Shami
Babar Azam stands as the piller of Pakistan’s batting unit. Facing criticism for a sedate inning against New Zealand, Babar will look to silence doubters with his best performance against India. However, the biggest challenge he will face will be against Mohammed Shami, the Indian bowler who recently excelled against Bangladesh with a five-wicket haul. Shami’s lethal form could be important in restricting Pakistan’s progress.
Mohammad Rizwan vs Kuldeep Yadav
As Pakistan’s captain, Mohammad Rizwan will face pressure in this must-win encounter. His performance is crucial to Pakistan’s aspirations in the tournament. One of the key battles will be with Kuldeep Yadav, who has a inclination for troubling opposing batters with his clever spin on Dubai’s receptive pitches. Rizwan’s ability to handle Kuldeep’s variety could change Pakistan’s middle-over strategy.
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