Cricket fans around the world are eagerly waiting for Sunday, February 23, at 2:30 PM, when arch-rivals India and Pakistan face off in the Champions Trophy 2025. The high-stakes IND vs PAK match will take place at the Dubai International Stadium, and the result will significantly impact both teams’ chances of reaching the semi-finals.
India made a strong start to the tournament by defeating Bangladesh in their opening match, while Pakistan suffered a 60-run defeat against New Zealand. As both teams prepare for this crucial head-to-head clash, fans are looking forward to India vs Pakistan live score updates and match highlights.
Babar Azam’s Absence Creates a Stir in the Pakistan Camp
A major development from the Pakistan camp has taken center stage ahead of this crucial encounter. Babar Azam, Pakistan’s key batter, was missing from the training session on Saturday, February 22. This unexpected absence has sparked speculation about whether he will be dropped from the playing XI for the India vs Pakistan match in 2025.
Why Did Babar Azam Skip Training?
Babar Azam has been facing heavy criticism following his slow innings of 64 runs in 90 balls against New Zealand. According to a Times of India report, he was the only player absent from training just a day before the crucial India vs Pakistan match time. The situation intensified when PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi visited the team and reportedly issued strict instructions to ensure a victory against India at any cost.
Pakistan Coach Aaqib Javed’s Explanation
After the training session, Pakistan’s head coach Aaqib Javed clarified that Babar Azam decided to rest and assured the media that there was no issue regarding his selection. However, with Pakistan’s playing XI for the India match still uncertain, fans are eagerly awaiting official squad news from the PCB official website Champions Trophy 2025 section.
Mohsin Naqvi’s Meeting with Pakistan Team Members
The scheduled two-hour training session was cut short after PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi held a serious discussion with key players, including:
- Mohammad Rizwan (Captain)
- Shaheen Shah Afridi (Fast Bowler)
- Haris Rauf (Fast Bowler)
- Aaqib Javed (Head Coach)
Reports suggest that Naqvi was unhappy with Pakistan’s team selection and emphasized the importance of strategic changes ahead of the India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy 2025 match.
India vs Pakistan Match Preview & Key Battles
As one of the most anticipated matches of the Champions Trophy 2025 schedule, this clash is expected to be thrilling. Let’s look at the key players and match dynamics.
India’s Form & Players to Watch
India has shown dominance in their opening match, and several players have stepped up with match-winning performances.
Key Players for India:
✔ Virat Kohli – A master in high-pressure games, known for his exceptional record in India vs Pakistan head-to-head stats.
✔ Rohit Sharma – His ability to provide explosive starts could be a game-changer.
✔ Jasprit Bumrah – India’s spearhead bowler, capable of dismantling Pakistan’s top order.
✔ Shubman Gill – One of India’s rising stars, known for his consistent performances.
Pakistan’s Struggles & Key Players
Pakistan’s poor start to the tournament means they must perform exceptionally well against India to stay in contention for the semi-finals.
Key Players for Pakistan:
Mohammad Rizwan (Captain & Wicketkeeper) – Leading from the front, Rizwan needs to anchor the innings.
Shaheen Shah Afridi – Pakistan’s most lethal bowler, known for his early breakthroughs.
Haris Rauf – A pacer with express speed, crucial in the middle overs.
Fakhar Zaman – Has a history of strong performances against India, especially in finals.
India vs Pakistan Head-to-Head in Champions Trophy
India and Pakistan have faced off five times in Champions Trophy history, with each team winning two matches while one game had no result. Their most memorable encounter was the Champions Trophy 2017 final, where Pakistan stunned India with a historic victory.
Dubai International Stadium Pitch Report & Match Conditions
The Dubai pitch is known for being batting-friendly with some assistance for spinners as the game progresses. Given the dew factor, the team winning the toss might prefer to bowl first.
India vs Pakistan Playing XI Predictions
With Babar Azam’s availability still unclear, Pakistan might make some adjustments. India, however, is expected to retain its winning combination.
India’s Probable Playing XI:
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (WK)
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Arshdeep Singh
Pakistan’s Probable Playing XI:
- Mohammad Rizwan (C & WK)
- Fakhar Zaman
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Saud Shakeel
- Iftikhar Ahmed
- Shadab Khan
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Haris Rauf
- Naseem Shah
- Usama Mir
What’s at Stake?
Both teams are desperate for a win to keep their Champions Trophy semi-final hopes alive. For India, a victory would almost guarantee a spot in the knockout stage, while Pakistan faces a potential early exit if they lose.
Where to Watch IND vs PAK Live?
- India vs Pakistan live streaming on Hotstar
- India vs Pakistan live commentary on BBC Sports
- Champions Trophy 2025 match highlights on YouTube
- India vs Pakistan tickets booking online
Conclusion
With the world watching, this high-octane clash is set to deliver thrills, drama, and unforgettable moments. Will India continue their dominance, or can Pakistan bounce back from their poor start? Stay tuned for India vs Pakistan live updates, match predictions, and post-match analysis as cricket’s biggest rivalry unfolds.
FAQs
Q1. When is the 2025 Champions Trophy match between India and Pakistan?
Ans: The match will be played on Sunday, February 23, at 2:30 PM IST at Dubai International Stadium.
Q2. Did Babar Azam miss the training session before the match?
Ans: Babar Azam reportedly took a rest day, but speculation suggests his place in the playing XI might be under discussion.
Q3. Where can I watch India vs Pakistan live?
Ans: The match will be live-streamed on Hotstar, with live commentary available on BBC Sports and updates on ESPN and Cricbuzz.
Q4. What is the head-to-head record between India and Pakistan in the Champions Trophy?
Ans: Both teams have won two matches each, with one match having no result in past Champions Trophy encounters.
Q5. What are the key players to watch in the India vs Pakistan match?
Ans: India: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah
Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf