Hardik Pandya added a touch of spice to the high-octane India-Pakistan clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with a cheeky send-off after dismissing Pakistan skipper Babar Azam. The crucial breakthrough came in the ninth over, shifting the momentum in India’s favor at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday.
Pakistan, having won the toss and opted to bat, started steadily. Babar looked fluent with his drives and appeared set for a big knock. However, Pandya had other plans. Bowling a length delivery outside off, he found just enough movement to induce an edge. KL Rahul, ever sharp behind the stumps, dived to his right to complete a fine catch, sending the Pakistan captain back for 23 off 26 balls.
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The moment was a game-changer, and Pandya’s animated celebration only added to the drama. Babar Azam ’s dismissal came at a crucial juncture, just as Pakistan was looking to build a strong foundation. The ball, angled into him before seaming away, forced the mistake as he attempted a drive, only to feather it through to the keeper. India struck early, drawing first blood in the marquee contest.
Hardik Pandya Enter Babar Azam Gone! Good Catch By KL Rahul ♥pic.twitter.com/V3xfRqIY8B
— 𝑨𝑹𝑴𝑨𝑵 ᴷᴸ ᴿᵃʰᵘˡ ˢᵗᵃⁿ (@CoolB0yArman01) February 23, 2025
At the toss, Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan expressed confidence in his team’s decision to bat first, stating, “Looks like a good surface, and we want to bat. Every ICC game is crucial, and the boys are familiar with the conditions. We’ve done well at this venue before. One change—Imam replaces Fakhar.”
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Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, on the other hand, remained unfazed about bowling first. “The pitch looks similar to the last game. It might slow down later. The way we fought last match was a great test for us. We’re going with the same team.”
With an electric atmosphere and early breakthroughs, the stage was set for yet another classic India-Pakistan encounter.
