Dubai, February 23, 2025 – India staged a strong comeback to bowl out Pakistan for 241 runs in their much-anticipated Champions Trophy encounter. A disciplined bowling performance ensured that Pakistan failed to capitalize on a crucial partnership, handing India the advantage going into the chase.
Kuldeep Yadav Spins a Web
Kuldeep Yadav led India’s charge with a brilliant spell, claiming three key wickets. He dismissed Salman Ali Agha (19), Shaheen Afridi (0), and Naseem Shah (14), restricting Pakistan’s lower order from adding significant runs.
Ravindra Jadeja also made an impact, removing Tayyab Tahir (4) in the 37th over, further tightening India’s grip on the game.
Shakeel and Rizwan Steady the Ship
Pakistan struggled early but found stability through a 104-run partnership between Saud Shakeel (62) and Mohammad Rizwan (46). Just when Pakistan seemed to be regaining control, Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel struck, breaking the crucial stand and preventing the team from posting a bigger total.
Early Setbacks for Pakistan
Pakistan’s innings started on a shaky note as Hardik Pandya dismissed Babar Azam (23). Imam-ul-Haq (10) was run out after a direct hit from Axar Patel, adding to the early woes.
Despite Shakeel’s gritty innings, wickets continued to tumble. Kuldeep’s three-wicket haul and Axar’s economical spell ensured that Pakistan never gained full momentum.
Pakistan Falls Short at 241
With the lower order failing to contribute much, Pakistan was all out for 241 in 49.4 overs. The total, while competitive, might not be enough on a pitch that appears to favor batting under lights.
Injury Concerns for India
India suffered a minor scare when Mohammed Shami left the field for 20 minutes due to a shin issue. However, he returned to bowl after the 11th over. Skipper Rohit Sharma also briefly exited the field due to the Dubai heat but rejoined the team later.
Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat. India retained their winning XI from their 6-wicket victory over Bangladesh. Pakistan made one change, bringing in Imam-ul-Haq for Fakhar Zaman, who was ruled out due to injury.
India has dominated Pakistan in recent ICC tournaments, securing victories in the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup. With a target of 242, the Men in Blue will look to continue their winning streak against their arch-rivals.
