Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
The world of cricket is full of excitement as the much awaited one India–Pakistan clash in the ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches Scheduled for February 23 at the Dubai International Stadium, the encounter promises to be a spectacle, given the intensity and historical importance of the rivalry. Former Indian cricketer Suresh Rainaduring a discussion about the “Press Room” hosted by Star Sports, shared his thoughts on this high-voltage fixture and the prospects for Team India.
Suresh Raina’s bold claim on India-Pakistan clash and Virat Kohli
When asked to predict the outcome of the India-Pakistan match, Raina diplomatically stated that both teams have equal chances of winning. Raina’s belief in Kohli’s ability to deliver high-pressure games reflects the star batsman’s impressive record against Pakistan at ICC events, where his consistency and resilience have often tipped the scales in favor of the ‘India.
“I think India and Pakistan will have a fifty percent chance. Virat Kohli will win it for India and his performance will be magnificent.” Raina said.
Who will have an advantage in bowling? Raina shares her perspective
Raina highlighted the strength of Pakistan’s bowling unit, acknowledging it as superior to India’s current set-up. He claimed that Pakistan’s familiarity with Dubai conditions, having played extensively in the UAE due to home accommodation restrictions, gives the Men in Green a slight edge.
“Pakistan have a better bowling attack. Although both teams have left-arm seamers, the kind of passion Pakistan play in Dubai, they get the home advantage.” commented the former Indian cricketer.
Raina also highlighted the crucial role of Indian skipper Rohit Sharma in this encounter. He believed that Rohit’s experience and ability to strategize will be instrumental in overcoming Pakistan, especially in Dubai, where India faced setbacks in the past, such as the T20 World Cup 2021 defeat against Pakistan.
“Pakistan has played a lot of cricket in Dubai and we have lost a World Cup match there as well. But this scenario will be different because Rohit Sharma knows how crucial these matches against Bangladesh, Pakistan and New Zealand are,” Raina concluded.
READ also: Suresh Raina names the player India will regret losing in ICC Champions Trophy 2025
India’s road to Champions Trophy 2025
Before the marquee tournament, Team India will complete their last white ball task with a five-match T20I seriesif a three-match ODI series against England at home This series will serve as a crucial preparatory phase for India, helping them fine-tune their squad and address any gaps ahead of the Champions Trophy. India will begin their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign against Bangladesh, a match that could set the tone for the rest of the tournament. As the defending champions, Pakistan will go into the event riding on the momentum of their 2017 triumph, further raising the stakes for the clash in Dubai.
