The former Pakistan batter believes playing in home conditions gives Babar Azam’s side an edge over India in the upcoming tournament.
February 18, 2025: Pakistan’s Home Advantage Over India in Champions Trophy, Says Mohammad Yousuf
As Pakistan gears up to host its first ICC event in 29 years, former cricketer Mohammad Yousuf has shared his excitement and analysis ahead of the Champions Trophy. The tournament, set to begin on February 19, will see Pakistan take on New Zealand in the opener at the National Stadium, Karachi.
Speaking to Samaa TV, Yousuf praised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for successfully renovating stadiums in record time, calling it a significant achievement for Pakistan cricket.
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“I am very excited like any Pakistani. After 29 years, Pakistan is hosting an ICC event. Kudos to the PCB for the way they renovated all the stadiums in six months,” Yousuf said.
Pakistan vs India: A Crucial Edge in Home Conditions?
Yousuf acknowledged that India and New Zealand are two of the strongest and most balanced teams in the tournament. However, he believes Pakistan’s familiarity with home conditions gives them an advantage over India.
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“India, too, have a balanced side. But Pakistan have the edge because they are playing in home conditions. However, they need to play calculated cricket throughout the tournament,” he added.
New Zealand, he noted, pose the biggest challenge in subcontinent conditions due to their strong batting lineup, quality spin attack, and experienced pacers.
“New Zealand looks like the most balanced side. They have three quality fast bowlers, good spinners, and a solid top six in batting. Their wicketkeeper is an all-rounder, and they have two spin-bowling all-rounders,” Yousuf explained.
Pakistan Must Improve Against Spin, Says Yousuf
Despite his optimism, Yousuf also pointed out Pakistan’s struggles against spin bowling, especially after their loss to New Zealand in the tri-series final.
“We have played on turning wickets recently. We need to play in the gaps against spinners, rotate strike, and reduce dot balls. We got exposed in the tri-series final against New Zealand when we failed to dominate their spinners in the middle overs. There are too many gaps with five fielders in the 30-yard circle, and we must exploit them,” he advised.
Pakistan will have to strategize carefully and build strong partnerships, ensuring they do not get bogged down by opposition spinners, especially in pressure situations.
Champions Trophy 2025: A Landmark Moment for Pakistan
The Champions Trophy 2025 is a historic moment for Pakistan cricket as it hosts an ICC tournament after nearly three decades. With Babar Azam leading the team, the home crowd will expect a strong performance, especially against arch-rivals India.
Pakistan’s ability to adapt, handle pressure, and capitalize on their home conditions will play a crucial role in determining their fate in the tournament.
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