6 March 2025
The cricket world was abuzz with anticipation as the iconic India vs Pakistan encounter in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approached. But the spotlight turned intense as news surfaced about Pakistan's captain, Babar Azam, experiencing a health scare just days before this high-stakes game. During rigorous practice sessions in Dubai, Babar was reportedly stricken with extreme dizziness and muscle weakness, casting doubts over his ability to lead his team. However, quick medical attention helped him bounce back, and he was ultimately cleared to take part in this crucial match.
While Babar's recovery was a relief for Pakistani fans, the team faced another setback. Star opener Fakhar Zaman suffered an oblique tear in a prior match against New Zealand. This injury ruled him out of the rest of the tournament, forcing a team reshuffle. Fakhar's absence was a significant blow given his track record for delivering explosive starts. In response, Imam-ul-Haq was called up to fill the opening spot, partnering with Babar at the top.
For the match lineup, Pakistan's playing XI was shuffled to accommodate the changes, featuring Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (taking up captain duties), Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Abrar Ahmed. On the Indian side, the squad brought out their A-team as well. Rohit Sharma led the charge with seasoned players like Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and Mohammed Shami, alongside younger talents like Harshit Rana and Kuldeep Yadav ready to take on their longstanding rivals.
The electrifying match held at the Dubai International Stadium was not just about cricket but also about the passion and rivalry it represents. Both nations boast legendary cricket histories, and their face-off drew massive global attention. Fans scrambled for tickets, leading to a rapid sellout despite sky-high prices. Such is the fever pitch for an IND vs PAK game, transcending the boundary lines and creating a spectacle that resonates with cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
