Pakistan’s star batter, Babar Azam, missed the team’s practice session ahead of their big Champions Trophy match against India on Sunday, leading to questions about whether he will play. His absence has added to the pressure as Pakistan faces a must-win game.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi  said that Pakistan must win at any cost. Babar has already faced criticism for his slow 90-ball 64 runs in Pakistan’s 60-run loss to New Zealand, and skipping Saturday’s practice raised more concerns.

Champions Trophy: Babar Azam Misses Training as Pakistan Prepares for India Clash

Head coach Aaqib Javed tried to calm the situations, saying Babar had chosen to rest. However, Naqvi’s presence at the Dubai International Stadium showed how much pressure the team is under.

🚨Babar Azam skipped the training session at Dubai Stadium before the India match due to illnessbut it's not serious. He is recovering. [Sohail Imran] pic.twitter.com/XP1OLMT87b

— Salman 🇵🇰 (@SalmanAsif2007) February 22, 2025

The practice session, originally planned for two hours, Naqvi met with captain Mohammad Rizwan, coach Aaqib Javed, and key players like Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf. Reports suggest Naqvi wasn’t happy with the team’s selection and spent time speaking to players and support staff individually.

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Naqvi expressed confidence in the team. “It will be a great game. Our team is ready, and I believe they are in good form. We support them, whether they win or lose,”

India’s Champions Trophy matches were moved to Dubai after they refused to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns. If India reaches the final, that match will also be played in Dubai, even though Pakistan is the official host of the tournament. With questions around Babar’s availability and the PCB chief demanding a top effort, Pakistan’s clash against India is set to be a great battle, both on and off the field.