The cricket world is abuzz as the much-anticipated event India–Pakistan clash during the ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches. Scheduled for February 23 at the Dubai International Stadium, the match promises to be a spectacle, given the intensity and historical importance of the rivalry. Former Indian cricketer Suresh Rainaduring a discussion about “Press room” hosted by Star Sports, shared his thoughts on the high-voltage match and the outlook for Team India.
Suresh Raina’s bold claim on India-Pakistan clash and Virat Kohli
When asked to predict the outcome of the India-Pakistan encounter, Raina diplomatically said that both teams had equal chances of winning. Raina’s confidence in Kohli’s ability to deliver in games under high pressure reflects the star batter’s impressive record against Pakistan in ICC events, where his consistency and resilience have often tipped the scales in favor of the ‘India.
“I think India and Pakistan will have a fifty percent chance. Virat Kohli will win it for India and his performance will be magnificent,” Raina said.
Who will have the advantage in bowling? Raina shares her views
Raina highlighted the strength of Pakistan’s bowling unit, recognizing it as superior to India’s current setup. He said Pakistan’s familiarity with Dubai conditions, having played extensively in the UAE due to hospitality restrictions at home, gives the Men in Green a slight advantage.
“Pakistan has a better bowling attack. Although both teams have left-arm seamers, the kind of passion Pakistan play in Dubai, they have the home-field advantage. » remarked the former Indian cricketer.
Raina also highlighted the crucial role of Indian skipper Rohit Sharma in this encounter. He believed that Rohit’s experience and ability to strategize would be key in defeating Pakistan, especially in Dubai, where India has faced setbacks in the past, such as the 2021 T20 World Cup defeat against Pakistan.
“Pakistan played a lot of cricket in Dubai and we lost a World Cup match there too. But this scenario will be different because Rohit Sharma knows how crucial these matches against Bangladesh, Pakistan and New Zealand are.»concluded Raina.
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India’s road to the 2025 Champions Trophy
Ahead of the showpiece tournament, Team India will conclude its final white-ball mission with a five-match T20I seriess and a three-match ODI series against England at home. This series will serve as a crucial preparatory phase for India, helping them refine their squad and plug any gaps ahead of the Champions Trophy. India will begin their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign against Bangladesh, a match that could set the tone for the rest of the tournament. As defending champions, Pakistan will enter the event with the momentum of their 2017 triumph, further raising the stakes for the showdown in Dubai.