A high-stakes encounter is poised to add yet another thrilling chapter to cricket’s most intense rivalry.
India and Pakistan are set to reignite their fierce cricket rivalry in the Champions Trophy 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on 23 February, 2025. This match, steeped in history and intensity, promises to be another thrilling chapter in their long-standing competition.
As the reigning champions from the last edition in 2017, Pakistan will strive to repeat their previous triumph, while India aims to assert its dominance in ICC tournaments. Over the years, numerous Indian players have stepped up with match-winning performances against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy, playing a vital role in the tournament’s legacy.
Champions Trophy Clashes: A trip down memory lane
The 2017 Champions Trophy final at The Oval stands out as the most memorable clash between these two teams in the tournament’s history. Pakistan shocked India with a 180-run victory, thanks to Fakhar Zaman’s 114 and a brilliant bowling display from Mohammad Amir (3/16). Despite a valiant effort from Hardik Pandya (76 off 43 balls), India succumbed to the pressure, allowing Pakistan to claim their first Champions Trophy title.
However, India has generally had the upper hand in their previous encounters. During the group stage of the same 2017 edition, India secured a commanding 124-run win (DLS method). Rohit Sharma (91), Virat Kohli (81), and Yuvraj Singh (53 off 32) propelled India to a formidable 319/3 in 48 overs, with the bowlers ensuring a solid victory.
In the 2013 Champions Trophy group-stage match, India once again outperformed Pakistan in a rain-affected game at Edgbaston. Ravindra Jadeja’s all-round performance (2/29 & 19) was instrumental as India comfortably chased down the revised target. India later went on to secure their second Champions Trophy title under the leadership of MS Dhoni.
In the 2009 edition at Centurion, Pakistan claimed victory with a 54-run win, led by strong performances from Shoaib Malik (128) and Mohammad Yousuf (87). Despite a resilient 76 from Rahul Dravid, India fell short.
Key Indian Performers Against Pakistan in Champions Trophy
The Run Machine: Virat Kohli
Kohli has consistently excelled against Pakistan in ICC events. His impressive 81 off 68 balls during the 2017 group stage was pivotal in securing a dominant win for India. Renowned for rising to the occasion, his performance will be vital in Dubai.
The Hit Man: Rohit Sharma
Rohit played a crucial role in India’s batting lineup during the 2017 Champions Trophy, scoring 91 off 119 balls in the group-stage victory over Pakistan. His talent for performing under pressure makes him an essential player for the upcoming match.
As India and Pakistan gear up to reignite their rivalry, the history of past performances and standout players sets the scene for another exciting encounter. With a younger squad this time, both teams are fired up, making the stakes higher than ever; cricket enthusiasts around the globe are eagerly anticipating what could be a defining moment in the Champions Trophy 2025.
