Champions Trophy: Harbhajan Singh and Shoaib Akhtar Reignite Indo-Pak Rivalry
February 9, 2025: The countdown to the Champions Trophy 2025 is underway, and the excitement is palpable as cricket fans prepare for the much-anticipated clash between India and Pakistan on February 23 in Dubai. Adding to the fervor, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh and former Pakistani pacer Shoaib Akhtar sparked memories of their fierce on-field rivalry with a light-hearted face-off at the Dubai International Stadium during the ILT20 final.
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In a playful reenactment, Harbhajan wielded a plastic bat while Shoaib held a ball, humorously mimicking their past battles. The spectacle drew loud cheers and roars from the crowd, reminding fans of the heated encounters the two legends had during their playing days.
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The ILT20 final itself saw Desert Vipers and Dubai Capitals vying for their maiden title. However, the spotlight briefly shifted to Harbhajan and Shoaib, whose camaraderie captivated the audience.
The upcoming Champions Trophy promises to add another chapter to the storied Indo-Pak rivalry. Despite Pakistan hosting the tournament, India has opted to play all its games at neutral venues, with the group-stage clash taking place in Dubai. India and Pakistan are grouped with New Zealand and Bangladesh, adding intrigue to the tournament’s initial phase.
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India enters the tournament in strong form, having recently clinched the ODI series against England. Captain Rohit Sharma’s return to form with a century in the second ODI, coupled with Shubman Gill’s half-century and Ravindra Jadeja’s bowling brilliance, has set the tone for the team.
On the other hand, defending champions Pakistan, who triumphed over India in the 2017 Champions Trophy final, have struggled in recent matches, including a hefty defeat to New Zealand in a tri-series opener.
India, co-leaders in Champions Trophy titles with two victories, will aim to reclaim the trophy, with their last win in 2013. Meanwhile, Pakistan, the defending champions, will look to repeat their 2017 success and silence critics following recent performances.
As both sides prepare for their high-stakes clash, the playful encounter between Harbhajan Singh and Shoaib Akhtar serves as a reminder of the rich history and passionate rivalry that defines India-Pakistan cricket.
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