Former Indian spinner turned commentator Harbhajan Singh gave a huge statement ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025 match against Pakistan in Dubai on February 23 as well. Despite the fans eagerly awaiting the much-awaited clash, Harbhajan feels the rivalry is overhyped and stated how even Babar Azam has a poor record against India as well.

Speaking on a YouTube show, Harbhajan said, “India and Pakistan. You heard it right-this is an overhyped match between India and Pakistan. Because there is nothing in it. Look at their main batters. Their star batter is Babar Azam. His average against India is 31. If you are a top batter, you have to average around 50. Then, there is Rizwan. I like him as a player. He plays freely. But his average against India is 25. Fakhar Zaman, their only full-time opener, has an average of 46. It’s a good average. Fakhar can take the game away from India. Faheem Ashraf averages 12.5! I don’t think he will be a big threat. Saud Shakeel has an average of 8 against India. Looking at their batting line-up, I don’t get the confidence that this team will even fight.”

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The veteran also predicted that New Zealand will score a hat-trick of wins against Pakistan in Karachi in the tournament opener, given they have understood the tactics and situations as well.

“Recently, India hammered England at home. On the other hand, Pakistan lost to New Zealand in a tri-series at home. Keep in mind, New Zealand will play the first match against Pakistan. I think New Zealand will hammer Pakistan once again. Because, New Zealand seem to have understood the conditions and tactics. India are way ahead at this stage. I think it will be a one-sided game. It’s an overhyped contest. Yes, the tickets have been prized high. But, I don’t think we will get a lot of fun watching this one-sided match,” Harbhajan Singh concluded.