Welcome to the Live Ball-by-Ball Updates of India vs Pakistan – ICC Champions Trophy 2025
It’s the match that needs no introduction—the biggest rivalry in cricket and arguably in the world of sports. When India and Pakistan face off, the entire cricketing world takes notice. Fans from both nations mark their calendars as soon as the fixtures are announced, and today, the much-awaited clash is here.
Both teams come into this match with contrasting starts in the tournament. India secured a solid win against Bangladesh, while Pakistan struggled against New Zealand, losing by 60 runs. With momentum favoring India and history on their side, can Pakistan turn the tide and keep their Champions Trophy hopes alive?
Head-to-Head Record in ODIs
Total Matches Played: 135
India Won: 57
Pakistan Won: 73
Last Five Matches: India 5-0 Pakistan
Despite Pakistan’s overall superior head-to-head record, India has completely dominated recent encounters. Pakistan’s last win over India in ODIs came in the 2017 Champions Trophy final. Since then, India has had the upper hand, including a commanding victory in the 2023 World Cup where they bowled Pakistan out for 191 and chased the target with 20 overs to spare.
Venue and Advantage – Is This Really a ‘Home’ Game for Pakistan?
Though Pakistan is the official host of the tournament, the match is being played in Dubai, a neutral venue where India has historically performed well. This removes any home advantage Pakistan might have had and further tilts the scales in India’s favor.
Probable Playing XIs
India’s Likely XI
Openers: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill (VC)
Top Order: Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer
Middle Order: KL Rahul (WK)
All-Rounders: Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja
Bowlers: Harshit Rana, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav
Pakistan’s Likely XI
Openers: Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam
Middle Order: Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (C, WK), Tayyab Tahir
All-Rounders: Khusdil Shah, Salman Agha
Bowlers: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed
On paper, India looks like the stronger side, with a balanced squad featuring experienced match-winners and in-form players. Pakistan, on the other hand, has been hit by injuries, with Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman ruled out.
Key Factors & Players to Watch Out For
India’s Strengths:
- Batting Form: Shubman Gill has been in scintillating form, scoring a century in the last match. Rohit Sharma is also regaining his touch.
- Bowling Firepower: Mohammed Shami is coming off a five-wicket haul and continues to dominate in ICC tournaments.
- Momentum & Experience: India has won six of their last seven ODIs in Dubai. Moreover, the team has won their first match against Bangladesh where the team aced in all three departments.
Pakistan’s Challenges & X-Factors:
- Babar Azam’s Leadership: Though no longer captain, Babar must step up and play aggressively at the top to give Pakistan a fighting chance.
- Bowling Attack: Pakistan’s pace trio—Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf—can be lethal if they hit their lengths right.
- Must-Win Situation: Pakistan is on the back foot and needs to play fearless cricket to stay alive in the tournament.
Recent India-Pakistan Clashes in ICC Tournaments
- 2017 Champions Trophy Final: Pakistan defeated India to win the title.
- 2021 T20 World Cup: Pakistan beat India in Dubai.
- 2022 Asia Cup: Pakistan’s last win against India in an international match.
- 2023 ODI World Cup: India thrashed Pakistan by seven wickets in Ahmedabad.
- 2024 T20 World Cup: India won the match by 6 runs.
Match Prediction – Who Holds the Edge?
India enters the match as clear favorites, given their recent dominance and the form of key players. However, Pakistan is known for pulling off surprises when least expected. With their backs against the wall, they might just come out all guns blazing.
For the fans, more than anything, this match promises to be a thriller. Will India continue their dominance, or will Pakistan script a dramatic turnaround? Stay tuned for live updates!
