Pakistan is under added pressure after a disappointing 60-run defeat against New Zealand
23 February, 2025
PHOTO: AFP
The stage is set for an electrifying cricket battle as Pakistan and India gear up for their highly anticipated clash in the Champions Trophy on Sunday. Due to India's reluctance, Pakistan is forced to play its designated home fixture at a neutral venue in Dubai.
Pakistan is under added pressure after a disappointing 60-run defeat against New Zealand. The injury to Fakhar Zaman has further complicated matters, paving the way for Imam-ul-Haq to open alongside skipper Babar Azam. The batting unit must address the issue of excessive dot balls, while the bowlers face the challenge of restricting runs in the death overs.
Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, did not participate in the optional training session on Friday, though other players engaged in light training, catching drills, and a football session under floodlights at Dubai Cricket Stadium. Meanwhile, most of Pakistan’s bowlers opted to rest.
Head coach Aaqib Javed emphasized the team’s determination to perform well against India. "Even if you take the entire crowd out of the stadium, the pressure of a Pakistan-India match will still be there—that’s the beauty of it," he said. "Our players must focus solely on their game." He dismissed the notion that India has an advantage due to their early arrival in Dubai, stating that Pakistani players are well-acquainted with the conditions, having played various leagues here.
Pakistan’s bowling attack struggled against New Zealand, particularly in the death overs, where they conceded 320 runs. Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf failed to deliver as expected, while specialist spinner Abrar Ahmed managed to keep his economy rate in check but took just one wicket. Changes in the bowling attack appear unlikely, with part-time spinners Khushdil Shah and Salman Ali Agha expected to play a role.
Pakistan’s batting lineup has also faced challenges. Saud Shakeel failed to impress, while Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha must step up to share the responsibility. Khushdil Shah, after a disappointing bowling performance in the previous game, redeemed himself with a 69-run knock and could once again be crucial in the final overs. The team must also reduce the number of dot balls—162 in the last match—to ensure they can post a competitive total.
On the other hand, India enters the contest with high morale following a six-wicket victory against Bangladesh. Opener Shubman Gill is in stellar form, having scored a century in the previous match. Captain Rohit Sharma has regained his rhythm, though Virat Kohli is yet to find his best form. Given his strong record against Pakistan, Indian fans are hopeful he will deliver a match-winning performance.
India boasts a formidable batting lineup, including Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, and KL Rahul. Their bowling attack is also in top form, with Mohammad Shami already making an impact with a five-wicket haul in the tournament. Harshit Rana and Hardik Pandya add further strength to their pace attack, while a strong spin department provides additional options.
Shubman Gill, India's vice-captain, highlighted the importance of setting a competitive total in Dubai. "A score between 300 and 325 will be very good here. There's no issue with dew, so the team batting second will be under greater pressure," he said.
All tickets for the high-voltage clash were sold out within minutes, and a packed stadium is expected as cricket’s greatest rivalry unfolds once again.
