Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh believes Pakistan holds an edge over India in their 2025 Champions Trophy clash due to their familiarity with Dubai’s conditions. However, he acknowledged that while India has more match-winners, Indo-Pak encounters are often decided by key moments and adaptability.
India started their campaign with a six-wicket win over Bangladesh in Dubai, while Pakistan suffered a 60-run loss to New Zealand in Karachi. The arch-rivals are set to face off in a high-stakes encounter on Sunday, February 23, in Dubai.
Speaking on JioHotstar’s ‘Greatest Rivalry Returns’ ahead of the match, Yuvraj Singh shared his thoughts on why Pakistan might have a slight advantage. As quoted by ANI, he stated:
“I actually think Pakistan has an advantage because they have a base in Dubai. They have played a lot of cricket there and understand the conditions well. You talk about match-winners–yes, I agree with Shahid Afridi that we have more match-winners. But I believe that even if Pakistan has fewer match-winners, one player can still take the game away.”
“The India-Pakistan clash is not about match-winners alone; it’s about playing in the moment, adapting to the situation, and not letting expectations overwhelm you. The team that does this better will win the game for their country,” the 43-year-old added.
India bowled first against Bangladesh in their 2025 Champions Trophy match, restricting them to 228. Mohammed Shami led with 5-53, while Harshit Rana took three wickets and Axar Patel two. In the chase, Shubman Gill anchored the innings with an unbeaten 101 off 129 balls, hitting nine fours and two sixes.
Pakistan bowled first in the tournament opener against New Zealand in Karachi, allowing 320/5. In response, they were all out for 260 in 47.2 overs. Khushdil Shah top-scored with a quick 69 off 49 balls, while Babar Azam managed 64 but took 90 deliveries.
India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy Head-to-Head Record
India and Pakistan have faced off five times in the Champions Trophy, with Pakistan leading the head-to-head 3-2. Where India suffered defeats in 2004 by three wickets and in 2009 by 54 runs.
In the 2017 final at The Oval, Pakistan dominated with a massive 180-run win. Batting first, they posted 338/4, led by Fakhar Zaman’s 114. In response, India collapsed for 158 in 30.3 overs, as Mohammad Amir and Hasan Ali took three wickets each.
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