The much-awaited clash of Champions Trophy 2025 will be India vs Pakistan which will be on February 23 at Dubai International Stadium. As both the teams prepare for a thrilling face-off the biggest challenge for India would be picking the playing XI as the squad is filled with exceptionally talented players.

The Opening Pair For India vs Pakistan

As the captain of Indian contingent, Rohit Sharma is one of the most important players, his leadership skills and ability to play longer innings will surely make him the perfect fit as an opener. Shubman Gill will be his opening partner, it has been noticed that Gill has performed quite well when opening hence his ability to tackle pace and spin with ease makes him the right choice. If settled both Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill can wreck havoc and be a big challenge for Pakistan bowlers.

India’s Middle Order

Then at No. 3 we have India’s star batter Virat Kohli, who is has been the biggest headache for Pakistan, Kohli has the ability to perform under pressure and his role is extremely important. Then at No.4 and No.5 Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul come in, both the players are extremely calm. Their composure throughout the innings and ability to rotate the strike with playing aggressive shots when needed is extremely crucial.

Strongest All-Rounders In India’s Squad

In the all-round department Hardik Pandya Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel come in. While Pandya offers pace, Jadeja and Axar can spin their way for a win. The most important factor is their batting and exceptional fielding which gives India an edge always.

India’s Lethal Bowling Attack

For Middle overs, Yadav will make all the difference on dry surfaces of Dubai in breaking the parnterships with his tight turn. At the pace-end, Jasprit Bumrah will be handling the job to get yorker and death-overs, accompanied by Mohammad Shami’s cutters and sharp powerplay- breakthroughs who can help turn the tables alongside Bumrah against Pakistan’s strong batting order.

India’s Predicted Playing XI

Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami

India vs Pakistan In ODIs: Head-To-Head

Overall India and Pakistan have played 135 matches out of which India has won 57 matches and Pakistan has won 73. Even though Pakistan is seen dominant India has overcome as a powerful team and overpowered Pakistan on multiple occasions. Team India will be looking forward for the marquee clash and will be eyeing a win against their arch rivals.