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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to be one of the most anticipated cricket tournaments in recent years. With the event scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025, and co-hosted by Pakistan and the UAE, the excitement around the tournament is palpable. Cricket fans across the globe are eagerly awaiting the fierce competition, with eight teams vying for supremacy in a highly charged atmosphere. The tournament, featuring high-stakes matchups, promises thrilling cricket and fierce rivalries, especially as the action unfolds in two cricket-loving nations.
Sunil Gavaskar picks favourites for Champions Trophy 2025
In the build-up to the prestigious event, former Indian cricket captain Sunil Gavaskar has made his prediction for the tournament’s favourites, backing Pakistan to claim the top spot. Speaking on Star Sports, Gavaskar pointed out that playing in home conditions gives Pakistan a significant advantage, making them tough contenders.
He pointed out that it is always challenging to defeat a team when they are playing on familiar ground, as was evident when India, despite their impressive form leading up to the 2023 ODI World Cup final, ultimately lost in the final. Gavaskar acknowledged India’s dominant run in the tournament but emphasized that the home advantage for Pakistan would make them the team to beat in the upcoming competition.
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“The tag of favourites should be given to the home team Pakistan as it’s not easy to beat any team in their home conditions. India lost in the final of the ODI World Cup 2023 but before that they put up clinical performances and won ten matches on the trot. Hence, I feel Pakistan are the favourites for the upcoming tournament,” Gavaskar said.
Most awaited clash of the tournament
One of the most eagerly awaited matchups in the tournament will be the encounter between arch-rivals India and Pakistan. Scheduled for February 23, 2025, in Dubai, this high-profile clash has already captured the imagination of cricket fans worldwide. With both teams known for their passionate fan bases and the rich history of their rivalry, the match is set to be a thrilling contest. Gavaskar’s comments on the home advantage for Pakistan add even more intrigue to the encounter, as fans anticipate a captivating battle on the field.
