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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to begin on February 19, with matches scheduled in Pakistan and the UAE. The return of this marquee event after eight years has generated immense excitement among cricket fans worldwide. Eight teams will battle it out for the prestigious trophy, and the tournament promises thrilling encounters between the best sides in world cricket.
India-Pakistan clash: The most anticipated match of the tournament
Among the high-profile fixtures, the clash between India and Pakistan is expected to be one of the most thrilling games of the tournament. The arch-rivals have had a long-standing rivalry, making their encounters a spectacle for cricket enthusiasts. While India has dominated Pakistan in recent ICC events, the unpredictable nature of the contest keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
Harbhajan Singh picks a Pakistan star who can take the game away from India
Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh recently shared his views on the upcoming India vs Pakistan match, calling it “overhyped” and stating that the gap in quality between the two teams makes it a one-sided affair. However, he acknowledged that one Pakistani batter could pose a significant challenge for India—Fakhar Zaman.
“India and Pakistan. You heard it right—this is an overhyped match. There is nothing in it. Look at their main batters. Their star batter is Babar Azam, and his average against India is 31. A top batter should average around 50. Then there is Rizwan, a good player, but his average against India is 25. Fakhar Zaman, their only full-time opener, has an average of 46. It’s a good average. Fakhar can take the game away from India,” Harbhajan said, as quoted by Times Now.
Also READ: Beating India or Champions Trophy 2025 glory? Pakistan’s Salman Agha reveals his top priority
Harbhajan raises doubts over Pakistan’s ability to give a fight to India
The former cricketer also expressed doubts about Pakistan’s ability to challenge India, stating that their batting lineup lacks the depth and consistency needed to compete at the highest level.
“Faheem Ashraf averages 12.5! I don’t think he will be a big threat. Saud Shakeel has an average of 8 against India. Looking at their batting lineup, I don’t get the confidence that this team will even fight,” he added.
