As one of the biggest rivalries in cricket, this match is expected to be a thrilling contest.
India vs Pakistan, IND vs PAK, ICC Champions Trophy 2025: The highly anticipated India vs Pakistan clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place on Sunday, February 23, in Dubai. As one of the biggest rivalries in cricket, this match is expected to be a thrilling contest. Let’s take a look at the seven key players who could make a significant impact in this high-stakes encounter.
India vs Pakistan, IND vs PAK, ICC Champions Trophy 2025: 7 Players to Watch Out For
1. Virat Kohli (India)
A name that needs no introduction. Though Kohli has been battling a rough patch in form, he has a history of stepping up in major ICC events—especially against Pakistan. His experience and ability to handle pressure make him one of the most crucial players for India in this clash.
2. Rohit Sharma (India)
The Indian captain, also known as "The Hitman," has an excellent track record against Pakistan. His aggressive batting has troubled the Men in Green in past encounters, including his blistering 86 off 63 balls in the ODI World Cup 2023. If he finds his rhythm, Pakistan’s bowlers could be in for a tough day.
3. Shubman Gill (India)
Currently the No. 1 ranked ODI batsman, Gill has been in outstanding form. He recently smashed a match-winning century against Bangladesh in India's opening game of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. With another century against England in the final ODI before the tournament, he enters this match as one of India's most reliable batters.
4. Shreyas Iyer (India)
A quiet performer but an invaluable asset to the Indian middle order. Iyer has been consistently scoring runs and could play a crucial role in stabilizing the innings if early wickets fall. His ability to pace his innings well makes him a key player to watch.
5. Abrar Ahmed (Pakistan)
Pakistan’s leg-spinner has been in superb touch and could be a major threat to India—especially Virat Kohli. Kohli has struggled against leg-spinners in recent times, falling to Bangladesh’s Rishad Hossain and England’s Adil Rashid in soft dismissals. Abrar could exploit this weakness and pose a serious challenge to India's batting lineup.
6. Salman Agha (Pakistan)
A hard-hitting middle-order batter, Salman Agha has shown his ability to take on bowlers and accelerate the scoring. His quickfire 42 off 28 balls against New Zealand in Pakistan's tournament opener demonstrated his potential. He will be one of Pakistan’s key weapons against India’s bowling attack.
7. Khushdil Shah (Pakistan)
Known for his composure in high-pressure situations, Khushdil Shah played a crucial knock of 69 off 49 balls in a tough match against New Zealand, nearly pulling off a rescue act for his team. If Pakistan finds itself in trouble against India, his ability to counterattack and build partnerships could be game-changing.
With both teams packed with match-winners, this India vs Pakistan showdown promises to be a spectacle. Cricket fans across the world will be eagerly watching as these players take center stage in Dubai on February 23.
