When: February 23, 13:00 Local, 14:30 IST

Where: Dubai International Cricket Stadium

What to expect: The weather forecast is bright and sunny and with little chance of dew coming in, the team winning the toss may choose to bat first.

Pakistan

The conditions are expected to favour the slow bowlers but Pakistan coach Aqib Javed refused to change tactics and go with more spinners in the XI. He insisted that pace bowling is his team's strength and his side will go with three frontline pacers - Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf.

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

Did you know?

- Each of Pakistan's two wins against India in the recent past in ICC tournaments have come on the back of Pakistan seamers denting India in the Powerplay (Mohd Amir in CT 2017 final & Shaheen Afridi in T20 WC 2021).

- India have won 10 out of 13 ICC ODI matches against Pakistan but the rivals enjoy a slight a 3-2 W-L record against India in Champions Trophy making it the only ICC tournament where they have a positive W-L record against India.

The India vs Pakistan cricket match is one of the most exciting games for fans worldwide. The two teams have a strong rivalry, making every match thrilling and highly anticipated. Here are the details on how to watch the match live.

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

How to Watch the Match Live for Free

Free Online Streaming Options

Key Players to Watch

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

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

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

An Emerging Vital Moment in The Match’s 10th Over

The run out took place as Imam tried to push for a risky mid-on single but was caught short by Axar’s brilliant throw. Dismissal of him at bare minimum 10 runs put Pakistan underneath the barrel with no resources at hand, 47-2, and India was firmly on the charge.

#AxarPatel 🔥🔥#INDvsPAK pic.twitter.com/X6bQNIV4P6

— Comedyculture.in (@ComedycultureIn) February 23, 2025

ALSOREAD:-Irfan Pathan Playing to One Day Commentating the Next A True Cricket All Rounder

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

PAK vs IND Match Preview

The biggest rivalry in cricket will take center stage this Sunday in Dubai, as India and Pakistan face off in what promises to be a powerful Champions Trophy match. India enters this match on a high after outperforming Bangladesh in their first game, while Pakistan is looking to regroup after a crushing defeat to New Zealand. Recent history in this format tilts heavily in favor of India, and with their present hot streak, they've been tipped to come out on top in this high-voltage clash.

PAK vs IND Match Details

Pakistan vs India – 5th Match, Champions Trophy 2025

Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai

Date & Time: 22th February 2025 at 02:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

PAK vs IND Venue Stats

PAK vs IND Pitch Report

The pitch in Dubai is typically well-balanced. The surface will probably to have grass, which will allow the ball to skid. The quicker bowlers will benefit early on, but they must bowl an effective line and length to put the batsmen under pressure. 

PAK vs IND Weather Report

Anything above 240-255 runs will be difficult to chase at this venue. The weather is expected to be clear, with temperatures ranging between 24 and 27 degrees.

PAK vs IND Last Five Matches

PAK vs IND Head-to-Head Stats

Pakistan vs India Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: AUS vs ENG Today Match Prediction

PAK vs IND Probable Playing XIs:

India Probable Playing XIs

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

Pakistan Probable Playing XIs

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

Topmost Picks for PAK vs IND Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Pakistan

• Babar Azam – Babar Azam is a Pakistani cricket batting legend and one of the most talented players. In the first match against New Zealand, Babar got 64 off 90 balls at a strike rate of 71.11.
• Naseem Shah – He has taken 13 wickets in his last 10 ODIs, with an economy of 6.35. His variation and ability to swing the ball make him a threat to the Indian batsmen.

Top Picks – India

• Shubman Gill – Shubman Gill emerged as Team India's leading soccer player. Shubman scored 101 runs off 129 balls against Bangladesh, with a strike rate of 78.29.
• Mohammed Shami – He is currently India's leading wicket-taker in the ODI format through 2025. The start of the Champions Trophy season proved to be positive for him, as he picked up three wickets in 7.4 overs against Bangladesh at an economy rate of 4.04.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for Pakistan vs India Dream11 Team:

Mohammad Rizwan, KL Rahul, Babar Azam, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli(C), Axar Patel, Salman Agha(VC), Khushdil Shah, Haris Rauf, Mohammed Shami

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for Pakistan vs India Dream11 Team:

Mohammad Rizwan, KL Rahul, Babar Azam(VC), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill(C), Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, Salman Agha, Hardik Pandya, Haris Rauf, Mohammed Shami

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill

Vice-captain – Salman Agha, Babar Azam

Wicketkeeper – Mohammad Rizwan

PAK vs IND Probable Winners:

India and Pakistan come into this match with very different recent performances. India has been on a roll, winning the last four ODIs, while Pakistan has struggled, losing three of the previous four. The recent head- record also favors India, as they've beaten Pakistan in the last five 50-over matches. Pakistan's concerns are heightened by the absence of Fakhar Zaman, who might've provided an explosive beginning at the top. Nonetheless, Pakistan has a history of defying expectations with unexpected performances. However, if India handles the pace attack well and sticks to their game plan, they should come out victorious. Considering the team combination, India is expected to win this match.

Pakistan come to Dubai for the rival clash in a bid to keep their tournament alive. The Rivalry has been pretty one-sided for a while now but Pakistan's unpredictable nature can always show up. Their line-up has the potential, but they are not living up to it. Injuries are hitting them with Fakhar Zaman out of the tournament while Babar Azam's struggles were evident with his go-slow innings in the tournament opener. Their bowling too isn't doign so well with a lot of loose deliveries and slow fielding allowing batters to manouver runs easily. They need a win desperately and are in with a mountain to climb against India, who has had the edge against them.

India come in with some good form. Shubman Gill, KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma got good hits against Bangladesh while the bowlers contributed well. Shami is back at his best and India will hope Pakistan brings the best out of Virat Kohli, who missed out against Bangladesh.

PAK vs IND Match Details

Date: February 23rd, 2025

Time:  2:30 PM IST

Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium

Pakistan vs India Weather Report

Clear weather and a nice evening is expected for the game.

Pakistan vs India Pitch Report

Average Score Batting First in the last five games: 267

Average Score Batting Second in the last five games: 258

Wins Batting First in the last five games: 2

Wins Batting Second in the last five games: 2

There is some low bounce and turn in Dubai with batting looking a little tough. India had a tough time chasing briefly as well which could indicate that the surface may be better to bat on, get runs on the board and apply pressure. 

See Also: Pakistan vs India, Find out the Best Dream XI Team

Pakistan vs India Head to Head

Stat: Pakistan last beat India in and ODI in the 2017 Champions Trophy Final. 

PAK vs IND Predicted Playing XI

IND Playing XI

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

PAK 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

Pakistan vs India Key Players

Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli could not get going after getting a start against Bangladesh. He may have work to do against Pakistan though if Shaheen Shah starts well and Pakistan tends to be a side that can bring the best out of Virat Kohli, who looks a little under pressure. 

Shaheen Shah Afridi

Going wicketless and being taken for runs, New Zealand negotiated Shaheen Shah rather easily. Shaheen Shah though will know that he has had the better of Rohit Sharma in the past and a good first over could set him up well as he stands an inportant piece in influencing the game and Pakistan's chances in the tournament. 

PAK vs IND Match Tips

India are clear favorites with Pakistan struggling to perform.

Match Prediction: India Will Win the Match

The cricketing world is abuzz with the latest developments between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the Champions Trophy 2025. PCB has recently demanded written proof from the BCCI, verifying the Indian government’s denial of permission for the Indian cricket team to travel to Pakistan.

PCB demands for written proof

The PCB’s stance is clear: they require the BCCI to provide a written document from the Indian government, explicitly stating the denial of permission for the Indian team to travel to Pakistan. This demand is rooted in ensuring transparency and accountability, as verbal communications can be ambiguous and prone to misinterpretation.

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“If the India government declines permission, it has to be in writing and it is mandatory on the BCCI to provide that letter to the ICC now,” the PCB source working closely with organizing committee told PTI.

BCCI’s position

The BCCI has always maintained that the decision to play in Pakistan rests solely with the Indian government. Given the security concerns, the BCCI has expressed reluctance to commit to the Champions Trophy without governmental approval. This position is consistent with their actions during the 2023 ODI Asia Cup, where they opted for a Hybrid Model to avoid playing in Pakistan.

ICC’s role and responsibilities

The International Cricket Council (ICC) plays a crucial role in mediating such conflicts. While the ICC has not included the Hybrid Model discussion on its agenda for the upcoming annual conference, it has allocated additional funds to address any contingencies. The ICC’s position is to ensure that the tournament proceeds smoothly, irrespective of the participating teams’ locations.

“If the India government declines permission, it has to be in writing and it is mandatory on the BCCI to provide that letter to the ICC now,” the PCB source working closely with organizing committee told PTI.

The Champions Trophy’s logistics and scheduling could be significantly impacted if team India refuse to participate. The PCB has already drafted a schedule, with India’s matches, including a potential semi-final and final, planned in Lahore. If India withdraws, the ICC may need to consider alternate venues or even reformat the tournament.

“It is a fact that the we are insistent that the BCCI must inform the ICC about its travel plans to Pakistan at least 5-6 months before the tournament and in writing,” the top PCB source also stated.

Hybrid model discussion

The Hybrid Model, which allows teams to play their matches in neutral venues, has been proposed as a potential solution. Hosting the Champions Trophy as a two-country tournament would incur additional expenses. The ICC has earmarked funds to cover these potential costs, ensuring that the tournament can proceed without financial hindrances.

“The ICC Management is recommending additional costs just in case it is necessary to play some matches outside Pakistan if such a situation arises later on,” the source confirmed.

The 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup will kick off with a thrilling opening match between England and South Africa. Excitement is mounting as cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate this major event in the women’s cricket calendar.

Schedule Overview

The tournament opener promises an exciting clash between England and South Africa, igniting the competitive spirit immediately.

See Also: When KKR beat MI last time at Wankhede 12 years ago

The inaugural day features host nation Bangladesh facing off against a qualifier team in Dhaka. England and South Africa will also compete, setting the stage for an action-packed tournament.

The marquee match between traditional rivals India and Pakistan is scheduled for October 6 in Sylhet, adding to the tournament’s intrigue and excitement.

Groupings

Group A comprises powerhouse teams Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and a qualifier, ensuring fierce competition. Group B includes South Africa, England, West Indies, Bangladesh, and another qualifier, promising thrilling encounters.

Venue Details

Matches will be split between two venues, with Group A games in Sylhet and Group B in Dhaka, providing cricket fans across Bangladesh with opportunities to witness world-class cricket.

A total of 10 teams will be part of the tournament – two teams to be decided through the Qualifiers – with 23 matches to be held in total. The top two sides from both groups will feature in the semifinals.

Bangladesh proudly hosts the Women’s T20 World Cup for the second time, showcasing its passion for cricket and commitment to promoting the women’s game on the global stage.

Defending Champions

Australia enters the tournament as defending champions, having emerged victorious in the 2023 T20 World Cup final against South Africa. Past winners and their legacies add to the tournament’s rich history and anticipation.

Remaining Qualifiers

The final two spots in the Women’s T20 World Cup will be decided through the global qualifying tournament in Abu Dhabi, which will involve Sri Lanka, UAE, Scotland, and Ireland. The outcome of these matches will shape the tournament’s dynamics and competitiveness.

Full schedule

The inaugural T20 World Cup 2007 marked a watershed moment in Indian cricket history, culminating in a historic victory for the Men in Blue. Despite the passage of time, the legacy of that triumph lives on, with the champion players continuing to make significant contributions to the sport and beyond.

Amidst the enthusiasm of the tournament, India, led by the young and dynamic MS Dhoni, embarked on a remarkable journey. Despite being underdogs, the Men in Blue displayed noteworthy resilience and skill, overcoming formidable opponents on their path to glory. The victory not only instilled confidence in the Indian team but also inspired a generation of cricketers to pursue excellence in the sport.

17 years have passed since that historic triumph, and the champion players of the 2007 World Cup have ventured into diverse avenues. Let’s look at what some of these iconic players are doing nowadays.

MS Dhoni:  The wicket keeper-batsman emerged as one of the greatest captains in cricket history, leading India to multiple victories, including the 2011 World Cup and the Champions Trophy. His leadership prowess and calm demeanor earned him widespread acclaim, and he left an indelible mark on the Indian Premier League (IPL) by guiding Chennai Super Kings to five titles. After retiring from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni continues to showcase his skills in the IPL with Chennai Super Kings.

Yuvraj Singh: Yuvraj Singh’s stellar performances in the 2011 World Cup, where he excelled with both bat and ball, solidified his position as a cricketing icon. Despite battling cancer, Yuvraj made inspiring comebacks to the team before retiring from all forms of cricket in 2019. He enjoys his personal life with his family, inspiring millions with his resilience and courage.

See Also: Top 5 players who represented two countries

Gautam Gambhir: Gautam Gambhir, the top-scorer in the T20 World Cup final, continued to shine in international cricket after the 2007 tournament. With over 10,000 international runs and successful stints, as he captained Kolkata Knight Riders to two IPL trophies and ended up as one of the finest skippers, he established himself as one of India’s finest cricketers. Currently, he serves as the mentor of KKR in IPL 2024.

Dinesh Karthik: Dinesh Karthik’s cricketing journey has been a rollercoaster ride marked by ups and downs. Karthik has showcased his talent in various game formats despite facing challenges and uncertainties. Currently representing RCB in IPL 2024, Karthik’s versatility and resilience make him a valuable asset in Indian cricket.

Virender Sehwag: Virender Sehwag’s explosive batting style made him a force to be reckoned with in international cricket. Despite limited opportunities after the T20 World Cup, Sehwag’s impact on Indian cricket remains unparalleled. Currently engaged in cricket commentary for IPL 2024 on Jio Cinema, Sehwag continues to inspire budding cricketers with his insights and expertise.

Rohit Sharma: Making his international debut just months before the inaugural T20 World Cup, Rohit Sharma showcased glimpses of his talent and potential. Initially playing as a middle-order batter, Sharma displayed a decent performance, hinting at his future prowess. However, the strategic decision to slot Sharma at the top of the order transformed his career trajectory. Sharma embraced the new role with finesse, providing India with solid starts and setting the stage for numerous victories.

Besides his batting exploits, Sharma’s leadership growth has been remarkable. Captaining Mumbai Indians in the IPL, he led the franchise to an unprecedented five titles, showcasing his leadership acumen and tactical brilliance. Additionally, Sharma’s role as the skipper of the Indian cricket team in ODIs and T20Is has further solidified his stature as a leader. Currently, he is the skipper of India in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 in June.

Robin Uthappa: Robin Uthappa’s journey post-2007 T20 World Cup has been characterized by his association with Kolkata Knight Riders. Forming a formidable partnership with Gambhir, Uthappa played a pivotal role in the team’s success in the IPL. The Kerala batter played for Rajasthan Royals in 2020 before being traded to Chennai Super Kings. Currently, he is commentating on IPL 2024.

Piyush Chawla: The spinner last played for India in 2012 at 23 but went on to build a reputation in the Indian Premier League. Following his retirement from international cricket, Piyush Chawla transitioned into playing domestic cricket. His expertise and insights continue to enrich the cricketing fraternity. Currently, he is playing for Mumbai Indians as a specialist spinner in IPL 2024.

Joginder Sharma: Joginder Sharma’s journey took a different turn as he transitioned from cricket to serving as a police officer in Haryana. Despite his limited international appearances, Sharma will always be remembered for his last over and famous delivery that got Misbah-ul-Haq’s wicket in the final that won India the T20 World Cup. He played 12 IPL games for Chennai Super Kings.

Yusuf Pathan: Yusuf Pathan’s cricketing journey saw him excel in the IPL and enjoy moderate success in T20Is and ODIs. He wanted more success in ODIs, where he played 57 games, including six in the 2011 World Cup. Despite announcing his retirement in 2021, Pathan continues contributing to Indian politics, showcasing his versatility beyond the cricket field.

Irfan Pathan: From being a promising young talent to becoming the Player of the Match in the 2007 T20 World Cup final, Pathan’s journey is filled with memorable moments. Despite a promising start to his career, Pathan faced challenges and setbacks along the way. His last appearance for India came in 2012 at 27, marking the end of a journey that once held immense promise. In the ongoing IPL 2024 season, Pathan dons multiple hats, serving as a cricket commentator and expert on various platforms. 

Ajit Agarkar: Ajit Agarkar’s transition from a prolific cricketer to the chief selector of BCCI underscores his deep-rooted connection with the sport and his commitment to nurturing young talent. He played his last match for India in any format in that tournament. Agarkar continued playing in the IPL and for Mumbai for the next few years before hanging up his boots in 2013. He is currently the chief selector of BCCI. 

Harbhajan Singh: He played 19 T20I matches from 2009 to 2016. His decline in other formats was also evident. Harbhajan averaged over 40 in his last 23 Tests and a little over 35 in ODIs from 2010. Harbhajan announced his retirement from all forms of cricket last December 2021. Harbhajan Singh’s retirement from cricket marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life as he ventured into politics. His outspoken nature and leadership qualities continue to make an impact beyond the cricket field.

RP Singh: RP Singh was the highest wicket-taker for India in the 2007 event, grabbing 12 scalps. However, he last played for India before he turned 26. He did have a few impressive seasons in the IPL but lost consistency soon after. Currently, he is also commentating on IPL 2024. RP Singh’s noteworthy contributions to Indian cricket and his insightful commentary in IPL 2024 showcase his multifaceted personality and enduring love for the game.

S. Sreesanth: A lethal bowler in his prime, Sreesanth was involved in the 2013 spot-fixing scandal in the IPL, which effectively ended his career. He was arrested with a life ban imposed by the BCCI.  S. Sreesanth’s cricketing journey, marred by controversies and setbacks, culminated in his retirement from the sport. Despite the challenges, Sreesanth’s passion for cricket remains undiminished as he embraces a new phase of life.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled its proposed schedule for the 2025 Champions Trophy, sparking discussions around the potential visit of the Indian cricket team to Pakistan after a hiatus of nearly 17 years.

Proposed Venue

Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi have been earmarked as the three venues for hosting the two-week Champions Trophy. Notably, Lahore is slated to serve as the base for the Indian cricket team, with all their matches scheduled in the city, including the final.

See Also: T20 World Cup 2024: ICC explains drop-in pitch conditions

Basing India in Lahore is a strategic move aimed at streamlining logistical and security arrangements. It offers a pragmatic solution to potential travel and safety concerns, particularly given the sensitive nature of cross-border sporting events.

Lahore’s proximity to the Wagah border crossing presents Indian fans with a relatively easier option to attend matches. This move aligns with efforts to foster cross-border cricketing ties and promote fan engagement across borders.

Historical Context: India vs Pakistan

The rivalry between India and Pakistan in cricket is steeped in history, with matches between the two nations generating immense excitement and anticipation. However, political tensions and security concerns have often overshadowed sporting endeavours, impacting bilateral cricketing ties.

The last time an Indian cricket team toured Pakistan was during the 2008 Asia Cup. Since then, bilateral cricketing exchanges have been marred by diplomatic strains and security challenges, leading to a prolonged hiatus in cross-border cricket.

The Mumbai terror attacks in 2008 marked a turning point, exacerbating tensions between the two nations and casting a shadow over cricketing relations. Subsequent developments, including geopolitical shifts and security threats, have further complicated efforts to revive bilateral cricketing ties.

Prospects and Challenges

The final decision regarding India’s participation in the Champions Trophy rests with the Indian government, underscoring the significance of diplomatic engagement and political considerations in shaping sporting events.

The final decision on whether India do visit Pakistan for the Champions Trophy will be in the hands of the Indian government, rather than the BCCI.

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has expressed optimism about the participation of all eight teams in the tournament. However, the stance of the Indian government remains a pivotal factor in determining the feasibility of India’s visit to Pakistan.

On Tuesday evening in Karachi, Naqvi expressed the hope that “all eight teams” will come to Pakistan for the event, though he was not drawn into specifics about India’s position.

The Champions Trophy holds special significance for Pakistan, representing a landmark opportunity to host an ICC event after nearly three decades. The prospect of India’s participation adds a layer of historic resonance to the tournament, potentially heralding a new chapter in cross-border cricketing relations.