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.

ALSO READ: IND vs PAK Champions trophy Live Streaming: Where & How to Watch the Match Online & on TV

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.

The match between India VS Pakistan is one of the most thrilling game that people around the globe love to watch. Both teams have a great rivalry such that each game becomes suspenseful and much-awaited. Below are the specifications of how to watch the game live.

• Match: IND VS PAK
• Date: February 23th, 2025
• Time:  2:30 PM IST
• Toss:2:00
• Venue: Dubai

LIVE STREAMING DETAILS

Key Players to Watch

• India: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Gill
• Pakistan: Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan

ALSO READ:PAK vs IND Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win? | Match 05, ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Preview & Analysis

India probably playing xi:

Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohammad Shami

Pakistan probable playing Xi

Imam Ul Haq, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Salmam Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khusdil Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed

The cricketing world is waiting with bated breath for the India vs Pakistan encounter in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This electrifying encounter will be held in Dubai, where both teams will be looking to win. Below is the forecasted playing XI for both teams, along with some important insights into the match.

Match Details

•  Date: Sunday, February 23, 2025
•  Venue: Dubai International Stadium, Dubai
•  Match Time: 2:30 PM IST
•  Toss Time: 2:00 PM IST

India’s Predicted Playing XI

1. Rohit Sharma (Captain): An experienced opener who can provide a strong start.
2. Shubman Gill: A talented young batsman with solid technique.
3. Virat Kohli: One of the best batsmen in the world, known for his consistency.
4. Shreyas Iyer: A dependable middle-order batsman.
5. KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper): A reliable batsman and wicketkeeper.
6. Hardik Pandya: A key all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.
7. Ravindra Jadeja: A left-arm all-rounder with great fielding skills.
8. Axar Patel: A useful spin-bowling all-rounder.
9. Kuldeep Yadav: A wrist-spinner who can take crucial wickets.
10. Mohammed Shami: An experienced fast bowler with good pace and accuracy.
11. Arshdeep Singh: A promising left-arm fast bowler.

India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh

ALSO READ:PAK vs IND Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win? | Match 05, ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Preview & Analysis

Pakistan’s Predicted Playing XI

1. Babar Azam: The star batsman and leader of the team.
2. Imam-ul-Haq: A consistent top-order batsman.
3. Mohammad Rizwan (Captain & Wicketkeeper): A dependable wicketkeeper-batsman.
4. Salman Agha: A talented middle-order batsman.
5. Kamran Ghulam: A promising batsman in Pakistan’s setup.
6. Tayyab Tahir : A strong middle-order player.
7. Khushdil Shah: A power-hitter who can accelerate the innings.
8. Shaheen Afridi: Pakistan’s pace spearhead.
9. Naseem Shah: A young and talented fast bowler.
10. Haris Rauf: A key fast bowler with express pace.
11. Abrar Ahmed: A skilled leg-spinner.

Pakistan: Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Salman Agha, Kamran Ghulam, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed

Babar Azam vs Shubman Gill in ICC Tournaments

Cricket enthusiasts everywhere enjoy comparing great players, and the most discussed match-up of late is between Pakistan's Babar Azam and India's Shubman Gill. Both talented batters in their own right, their showings in ICC tournaments offer an interesting means by which to judge their abilities.

ICC tournaments Babar Azam

Babar Azam has been the ICC player for Pakistan. Ever since he broke through we have known that consistency in big games would be his strong suit. Not only did they have a contender, but his ability to ground the innings and take pressure might have taken Pakistan many necks of the woods in deciding a toss. Babar has represented Pakistan in all kinds of ICC tournaments — T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup, Champions Trophy etc.

• Strength of Babar Azam
• Runs at regular intervals
• Great skill and fluidity
• High-Pressure Experiences
• Leadership qualities of Pakistan co-captain.

ALSO READ: Virat Kohli: A Champion's Dedication to Team Success

Shubman Gill in ICC Tournaments

Shubman Gill is India's next (young) big thing Good for him, He was discovered after his triumph in the 2018 U-19 World Cup with the senior skip. He has since been a fixture in the Indian seniors and has started to take some form in ICC tournaments. With his fine style and fearless approach, perhaps he is a strong candidate for upcoming ICC events.

• Shubman Gill Has The Following Strengths
  
• Stylish and Aggressive Batting
  
• The ability to keep all bowlers 'under one dome'
  
• Still young, still improving with each game
  
• Solid at playing well in big matches

Statistical Comparison
While Babar Azam has more experience and a better record in ICC tournaments, Gill is a young star with immense potential. Babar has already scored multiple centuries in ICC events, whereas Gill is yet to make his mark on the international platform.

Who is Better in ICC Tournaments?
Each of the two players has his own style and abilities. Babar Azam is recognized for being consistent and a leader, while Shubman Gill is coming out as a forceful and fearless batsman. With the passage of time, Gill might become as good as Babar, but presently, Babar is ahead in ICC tournaments.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is about to start, and the match today is a thrilling encounter between Pakistan and New Zealand. The match will be played at the National Stadium in Karachi and is all set to begin at 2:30 PM IST (Indian Standard Time). Cricket enthusiasts around the globe are waiting for the live match to be viewed through different TV channels and online streaming websites.

• Match : NZ VS PAK
• Date: February 19th, 2025
• Time:  2:30 PM IST
• Venue: Karachi

LIVE STREAMING DETAILS

ALSO READ: PAK vs NZ Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win? | Match 01, ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Preview & Analysis

NEW ZEALAND

Rachin Ravindra/ Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Will O Rourke, Matt Henry

PAKISTAN

Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khusdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed 

Cricket in modern times have been privileged to have so many great batsmen take the game to next level. Babar Azam and Virat Kohli are the top Two Players among so many great batsmen. The two have enthralled cricket fans across the world, with perfect batting, such consistency and the skill to deliver under a lot of pressure. Of course, comparisons will be made between the two but each has a distinct legacy in the history of international cricket.

Virat Kohli has arguably been one of the greatest batsmen that ever played cricket. His steadiness across all three formats has become legendary. Kohli has a never say die mentality when it comes to runs and on-field intensity which has no equal. He has the ability to run in at a wicket and nick it for boundaries whilst not giving a single chance to the opposing bowling.

Meanwhile, Babar Azam has broken through the ranks very quickly to become Pakistan's mainstay at number one in the order. His overt bounce, skill at the crease are reminiscent of the best you will find in the world. What makes Babar so unique is this elegant combination of grace and finesse, and with his contributions unmatched across formats for years now Pakistan has been successful.

Stats and Records:

Statistics never show the complete picture but they do shine some light into these two cricketers being uber-dominant. Kohli who made his ODI debut in 2008 he has over 25,000 international runs and several centuries in Tests,ODIs and T20 against the best team. His all format dominance and adaptability has been one of his big strengths.

Though Babar is relatively fresh into international cricket, scores thundering already The all-time listed player in ICC rankings and holds many records for pakistan. Across formats, his batting averages reveal that he seems to be able to adjust to different conditions as well.

Leadership and Impact: Guiding Their Nation to Glory

Both players have been great to their country as well. Kohli was aggressive while playing and later as captain of India for fitness revolution, a lot of historic overseas wins. His leadership turned India into a big force, mostly in Test cricket.

Having to wear the cap for Pakistan, Babar Azam has borne heavy weight. Pakistan has enjoyed relative peace and match winning performances under him, especially in the white-ball arena. The maturity done to Tranquility and leading-by-example started the revival of Pakistan in the world.

Playing Styles and Adaptabilityt

Kohli was brutal, and he looked every bit a force to be reckoned with on world cricket. There is no greater chases bunter than him, he thrives in pressure and boasts of exceptional fourth wicket anchoring. Babar is a complete player with his clever footwork, solid timing and expansive K-run capability.

However Babar is usually associated with class and traditional stroke play. Watching his cover drives and wristy flicks are sheer pleasure. He has improved everywhere, starting from the defensive side of batting and can shift gears more than most hence an all-rounder as far as formats go.

A Legacy Beyond Comparison

Who is better Babar Azam or Virat Kohli, will be debated for as long these two are active. Kohli is already a legends in his own time, whilst Babar slowly but surely making history on his own terms. Both of these batters have inspired the world with their sheer arts and determination, and any cricket follower should be lucky to see them in action.Instead of comparing, who knows…maybe the most  clever approach is to revel in their journey and how each one contributed to the game.

Babar Azam and Virat Kohli are two of the finest batters of their generation. Their comparison debates have often intrigued fans and ex-cricketers on social media.https://t.co/F3lx8O74IQ

— CricketNDTV (@CricketNDTV) February 18, 2025

Also Read: Virender Sehwag Names His 5 Greatest ODI Batters; Kohli at No. 1, Sachin at 2

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will have an exciting match between India and Pakistan on February 23 in Dubai. The final team line ups will be announced yet, but cricket experts have predicted the possible playing XIs for both teams.

India's Probable Playing XI:

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina believes that having a strong spin attack will be crucial. He feels that Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav can play a key role in putting pressure on the opposition, especially in Dubai’s conditions.

ALSO READ: Sri lanka created history after beating australia : A History to Remember

Pakistan's Probable Playing XI:

Pakistan, the defending champions, have a strong team with a mix of experienced players and young talent. Their fast bowling attack,  Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, is expected to be one of their biggest strengths in the ICC Champions Trophy. The India vs Pakistan match in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is expected to be a thrilling match. India has a strong batting lineup and skilled spinners, while Pakistan's fast bowlers make their team equally dangerous. Both teams will be looking to win, making it an exciting big rivarly match for cricket fans.

Babar Azam became the joint-quickest to reach 6,000 runs in ODI cricket. The Pakistan sensation reached the milestone while playing an ODI tri-series final between Pakistan and New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi on Friday, February 14. Babar reached the milestone quicker than India's batting  sensation Virat Kohli. 

A Milestone to Remember:
Babar reached the 6,000-run milestone in his 123rd innings and 126th match. Previous South Africa opener Hashim Amla also had the record after  reaching the milestone in an equal number of innings. Virat Kohli reached the milestone in 2014, reaching 6000 runs in his 136th innings during an ODI against Sri  Lanka  in Hyderabad.

ALSO SEE :  Watch: Rohit Sharma Attends Wedding in Bangalore

FASTEST TO 6,000 ODI RUNS BY INNINGS :

This feat contributes to the burgeoning history of Babar Azam as among the greatest players in today's game of cricket. His leadership coupled with his batting  skill has positioned him among the most revered cricketers of today.

Babar was the fastest to 5,000 ODI runs when he got to the milestone in just 97 matches in May 2023. However, since the ODI World Cup, big runs on a consistent basis have eluded Babar. In his last seven innings in ODIs, Babar has managed just two fifty-plus scores.

The highly anticipated final between Pakistan and New Zealand is finally here! Fans from all over the world are eagerly anticipating which team will raise the trophy. All you need to know about the match, live streaming information, top players, and a summary of their previous match is below.

Match Details:

• Match: Pakistan vs New Zeland, Final
• Date: February 14, 2025
• Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
• Time:
  1. Pakistan: 2:00 PM PST
  2. India: 2:30 PM IST
  3. South Africa: 11:30 AM SAST

LIVE STREAMING

TV Broadcast

• India: Sony Sports Network
• Pakistan: PTV Sports
• South Africa: SuperSport

Online:

• SonyLIV App & Website (India)
• PTV Sports Website & App (Pakistan)
• SuperSport Live Stream (South Africa)
• FanCode App & Website (Available in multiple countries)

ALSO READ:PAK vs NZ Final Match, Match Prediction- Who Will Win Today?

Key performers:

Pakistan:

Babar Azam – Pakistan’s captain and top-order batsman, known for his consistent performances.

Shaheen Afridi – A world-class fast bowler who can take early wickets.

Mohammad Rizwan – A dependable wicketkeeper-batsman who can anchor the innings.

New Zealand:

Kane Williamson – A match-winner with experience in handling pressure

Devon Conway – A strong top-order batsman who can provide a solid start

SQUADS:

Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan(w/c), Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed, Kamran Ghulam, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf, Akif Javed, Usman Khan

New Zealand: Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham(w), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner(c), Matt Henry, Ben Sears, William ORourke, Rachin Ravindra, Mark Chapman, Nathan Smith, Lockie Ferguson

Babar Azam’s Poor Form Continues, Frustrating Fans in Tri-Series

Pakistan’s former captain Babar Azam is having a tough time in the ongoing Tri-Nation series. He failed again in the third ODI against South Africa, scoring just 23 runs off 19 balls. His struggles added to Pakistan’s troubles as they chased a huge target of 352 runs and big trouble for Pakistan in ICC Champions Trophy.

Babar’s Dismissal Disappoints Fans

Pakistan had a good start with Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam looking confident. However, Babar’s poor form continued as he missed a flick shot against Mulder’s 137 kph delivery, and the ball hit his pads. He challenged the umpire’s decision, but replays confirmed he was out. The Karachi crowd was shocked as their star batter walked back to the pavilion. Babar’s latest failure angered fans, who took to social media to express their disappointment. Many questioned his form and ability to lead the team, especially with the Champions Trophy coming up. Some even called him a ‘fake king’ and criticized him for wasting a team review.

ALSO READ: Not Babar Azam, Can this Indian star to become No. 1 In ICC ODI Rankings Check this!

Babar Azam gone for 23(19) after wasting a review pic.twitter.com/7BWK4A67fr

— Cricket & Stuff (@cricketandstuff) February 12, 2025

Babar’s stats in the Tri-Nation series so far:

• 10 (23) vs New Zealand
• 23 (19) vs South Africa

Babar Azam’s form is a big worry for Pakistan. He need to work for his form. While he is undoubtedly talented, his inconsistency is now a major talking point. As Pakistan moves forward, all eyes will be on Babar to see if he can regain his form. If he doesn’t, the pressure on him will only increase, forcing Pakistan to make tough decisions in the Champions Trophy.