Champions Trophy: “Team With Better Balance Will Have Edge”, Says Inzamam Ahead Of India, Pakistan Clash

February 21, 2025: Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq recently shared his thoughts on the key factors that could influence the outcome of the highly anticipated India vs. Pakistan Champions Trophy clash, set to take place in Dubai on Sunday. The rivalry between the two nations has always been filled with intensity, but this time, the stakes are even higher. Pakistan will enter the game after a disappointing 60-run loss to New Zealand, making their upcoming match against India a crucial one in their campaign.

Inzamam acknowledged the pressure that both teams would face, especially given the significance of the match. “There is always pressure. When you play just one match a year, that pressure is amplified,” he said during a special episode of JioHotstar. The former captain highlighted how the modern game is constantly under the microscope, with players closely watching each other’s performances. He noted that, unlike before, where team balance was the deciding factor, today’s players are influenced by the immense public and media attention.

Inzamam went on to praise India’s strength in recent years, particularly their all-rounders, who he believes can make all the difference in crucial encounters like these. “India has had a strong team in recent years, especially with all-rounders like Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya providing balance in the lower order. In subcontinent conditions, having such players makes a huge difference,” Inzamam explained. He further added that the team with better balance would have the upper hand in the match.

Shahid Afridi, another cricket legend, reminisced about his own experiences playing in the high-pressure India-Pakistan games. “For a cricketer, an India-Pakistan match is a golden opportunity, especially for youngsters. It was always my dream. Before a match, I couldn’t sleep at night—I’d think about my performance and how I couldn’t afford to miss this chance,” Afridi shared. He emphasized how the pressure of these encounters could make or break a player’s reputation and legacy.

As the rivalry intensifies and the tension builds up, this India-Pakistan match in the Champions Trophy is poised to be a thrilling spectacle, with both teams fighting not only for victory but also for pride. With so much at stake, every player will feel the weight of their country’s hopes and expectations on their shoulders.