Former Australian captain warns Pakistan ahead of must-win India clash

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has shared his thoughts on Pakistan’s chances ahead of their crucial Champions Trophy 2025 match against India. The game, set to take place on Sunday at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, is a must-win for Pakistan after their tough start to the tournament.  

Pakistan suffered a 60-run defeat against New Zealand in their opening match in Karachi, making their upcoming clash against India even more important. Another loss would put them in a difficult position to qualify for the next stage.  

India, meanwhile, began their campaign with a strong win over Bangladesh at the same venue.  

Looking at both teams’ recent performances, Ponting admitted that it will not be easy for Pakistan to defeat India. However, he did not rule out a possible comeback, pointing to Pakistan’s unpredictable nature.  

"It's going to be hard for Pakistan now," Ponting said.  

"We spoke only a few days ago and my prediction for that game was that Pakistan would beat New Zealand and probably beat them quite comfortably.  

"Fakhar's injury didn't help their cause but they were chasing a very big total on the back of some great batting from New Zealand. To post 320, it was always going to be a hard run chase.  

"With Pakistan, we talk about it every tournament, they're unpredictable. You never quite know what they're going to do.”  

Ponting believes that Pakistan has the ability to fight back but will need to be at their best to defeat India.  

“On their day, they were as capable as anybody. And now, having lost to New Zealand, they're going to have to be at their absolute best against India to beat them.  

"India's got off to a great start, Pakistan not so much. And with that injury that we spoke about, I think it's going to be hard for them to bounce back, but they can."  

Pakistan will need a strong performance to keep their Champions Trophy campaign alive when they face India in this high-stakes encounter.