Champions Trophy blockbuster: Pakistan face India in do-or-die match today

LAHORE: The stage is set for one of the most anticipated clashes in cricket as Pakistan take on India in the ICC Champions Trophy at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium today.

The momentum clearly favours India, with four wins from their last five ODI outings, while Pakistan’s recent form has been shaky, with three losses in their previous five matches. However, Pakistan’s cricketing history is replete with surprises, and they will look to defy the odds in this high-voltage encounter.

Pakistan’s Champions Trophy campaign started on a sour note with a heavy defeat against New Zealand. The Kiwis posted a commanding 320-5 after recovering from a precarious 73-3, and Pakistan struggled in response, managing only 260. The loss exposed several areas of concern for Pakistan, particularly in their batting approach and consistency in bowling. The absence of Fakhar Zaman due to injury adds to their woes, with Imamul Haq being called in as his replacement.

For Pakistan to turn the tide against India, a more aggressive approach is needed, particularly in their batting. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, the linchpins of Pakistan’s batting lineup, need to take charge and set a solid foundation. Salman Agha and Khushdil Shah, who showed intent in the previous match, must maintain the scoring rate and put pressure on the Indian bowlers.

Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, has the potential to trouble the Indian batsmen, but consistency will be key. On a slower pitch like Dubai’s, Abrar Ahmed’s spin could play a crucial role in breaking India’s middle order. The bowlers must adapt quickly to the pitch conditions and maintain disciplined lines and lengths.

India, on the other hand, comes into this match riding high after a convincing six-wicket win over Bangladesh. Shubman Gill’s unbeaten 101 and contributions from KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma ensured a smooth chase. India’s middle order, however, has shown vulnerabilities, and Pakistan’s bowlers can capitalize on this.

Virat Kohli’s form will be a focal point, with his impressive track record against Pakistan making him a player to watch. India’s bowling, led by Mohammed Shami, who took 5-53 in the last match, alongside the spin trio of Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel, will be crucial on a pitch that aids turn.

The Dubai pitch has shown a sluggish character with dry and slightly cracked surfaces, helping seamers initially and offering grip for spinners in the middle overs. The average score batting first at this venue is 219, but a target of around 260-270 could prove challenging. Batting second might be tricky under lights, with minimal dew expected.

As Pakistan prepares to face India, the team needs to bring their A-game to overcome the formidable challenge posed by their arch-rivals. The spotlight will be on key players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi, who need to inspire confidence and lead from the front. While India’s recent form and historical edge give them the upper hand, Pakistan’s unpredictability and potential for explosive performances make this contest an exciting prospect.

With the eyes of hundreds of millions of fans fixed on the game, the cricketing world awaits a thrilling encounter that promises passion, politics and patriotism in equal measure.