The scene is set for one of the most charged meetings in cricket as India and Pakistan are set to clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on February 23 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. With tensions running high and stakes even higher, ex-Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has commented on the highly anticipated match, stating that India’s capacity to perform under pressure provides them with a vital edge over their long-time rivals.
Pathan noted that Pakistan certainly has undeniable talent but tends to lag behind the aggressive, contemporary style needed in white-ball cricket. He stressed that India’s calmness during pressure moments separates them and may be the deciding factor in the next match.
“When it is Pakistan, see, they have enough issues in the side,” Irfan Pathan said. “Some of the older guys don’t play the aggressive style of cricket that is needed in today’s white-ball game. Can they switch that overnight? It’s tough. But aside from strengths and weaknesses, the India-Pakistan contest is about getting the occasion right. The team that does it better will win.”
ALSO READ: Ricky Ponting Hails Shubman Gill’s Rise To No.1 In ICC ODI Rankings
With only two teams qualifying from each group, Pakistan is in a must-win situation. But with India’s recent form and their ability to keep their cool under trying situations, Pathan feels Rohit Sharma’s team is the favorite.
“In recent times, we’ve witnessed India performing well in high-pressure situations. In one-day cricket, we’re clearly ahead in terms of talent and all-round abilities. Axar Patel has been taking important wickets, and we have plenty of options in batting and bowling,” he said.
Irfan Pathan also pointed towards the form of major Indian players, indicating their run will prove to be difficult to halt. “Shubman Gill is in great touch, and once Rohit and Virat get their rhythm, this side will be unstoppable. It’s also wonderful to see Mohammed Shami in top form. His five-wicket haul against Bangladesh will give him huge confidence, particularly after coming back from injury. Fast bowlers usually take time to get their rhythm back, but Shami has done very well.”
India started their Champions Trophy campaign on a high, beating Bangladesh by a convincing six wickets. Gill’s match-winning century and KL Rahul’s solid innings enabled India to chase down 229 with ease, while Shami’s deadly spell made sure Bangladesh never took charge. Pakistan’s campaign, on the other hand, got off to a disappointing start with a 60-run loss to New Zealand in Karachi. The Kiwis posted a daunting total, courtesy of centuries from Tom Latham (118*) and Will Young (107), with Glenn Phillips’ quickfire 61 further bolstering the innings.
WATCH – Harmanpreet Kaur Overwhelmed By Electrifying Bengaluru Crowd In WPL 2025 Thriller
Pakistan’s response lacked intent, and despite some resistance, they were bowled out for 260. To make matters worse, opener Fakhar Zaman has been ruled out of the tournament due to an oblique tear, forcing the team to call up Imam-ul-Haq as his replacement. With pace on their side, India will seek to exploit Pakistan’s early travails. But in an India-Pakistan showdown, as history attests, anything is possible. The world waits with bated breath for another spine-tingling chapter in this timeless saga.
