Pressure is on for tomorrow's India Pakistan Match
February 22, 2025: 
Match Preview:
The biggest rivalry in cricket resumes as India takes on Pakistan in a high-stakes Champions Trophy 2025 clash at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. While India enters with momentum after a comfortable win against Bangladesh, Pakistan faces intense scrutiny following a 60-run defeat to New Zealand. With Babar Azam under fire for his slow batting and Virat Kohli struggling against spin, the game promises to be a battle of nerves.
SWOT Analysis: India vs Pakistan
India’s Strengths:
Top-order Firepower: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and KL Rahul are in form, giving India a strong start. Spin Dominance in Dubai: The trio of Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel can control the middle overs effectively. Mohammed Shami’s Form: The veteran pacer took a five-wicket haul against Bangladesh and is a key asset in ICC tournaments.
India’s Weaknesses:
Kohli’s Struggles vs Spin: His vulnerability against left-arm spinners is a concern, especially against Shaheen Afridi and Nawaz. Lack of Middle-Overs Wickets: India failed to pick wickets consistently in the middle overs against Bangladesh. Unproven Death Bowling: Harshit Rana is promising, but can he handle pressure against a team like Pakistan?
Pakistan’s Strengths:
Pace Attack: Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah can pose problems for India’s batting order. Unpredictability Factor: Pakistan has a history of bouncing back after poor performances. Salman Ali Agha’s Form: The vice-captain played a crucial knock against New Zealand and could be key in the middle order.
Pakistan’s Weaknesses:
Lack of Intent in Top Order: Babar Azam’s slow batting and Fakhar Zaman’s absence put pressure on Imam-ul-Haq. Shaheen’s Dip in Form: He was below par against New Zealand, failing to deliver early breakthroughs. Pressure to Stay Alive: A loss here could severely hurt Pakistan’s semi-final hopes, increasing pressure on the team.
Key Battles to Watch Out For:
Virat Kohli vs Shaheen Afridi
- Kohli has struggled against left-arm pacers, and Shaheen dismissed him for a golden duck in the 2021 T20 World Cup.
- Will Kohli overcome his spin woes and step up on the big stage?
Babar Azam vs Indian Spinners
- Babar is under scrutiny for his slow 64 off 90 balls against New Zealand.
- Can he rotate strike better against Jadeja, Kuldeep, and Axar?
Rohit Sharma vs Shaheen Afridi
- Shaheen trapped Rohit LBW in the powerplay during previous encounters.
- Can India’s captain counter Shaheen’s inswingers early on?
Mohammed Shami vs Pakistan Middle Order
- Shami was expensive in the 2021 T20 World Cup but is now in form with a five-wicket haul.
- His ability to strike in middle and death overs will be crucial.
Players to Watch:
India:
Shubman Gill – Fresh off an unbeaten century, he could be the game-changer at the top. Mohammed Shami – India’s ICC tournament specialist will look to dominate in Dubai. Virat Kohli – Needs a big knock to silence critics and prove his worth against Pakistan.
Pakistan:
Shaheen Afridi – If he finds his rhythm early, India could be in trouble. Salman Ali Agha – The middle-order batter is in form and could take the game deep. Babar Azam – Under pressure, but will this be his moment to shine?
Final Verdict:
India has the upper hand based on recent form and squad balance, but Pakistan’s unpredictability makes them dangerous. A win for Pakistan would keep the tournament open, while an Indian victory could send them to the semis.
Who will handle the pressure better? Will Kohli or Babar steal the show? All eyes on Dubai this Sunday!
Last Updated on February 22, 2025 by Misha Bhatia
