India is set to face Pakistan in their second match of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy at the Dubai International Stadium. The tournament is being hosted by Pakistan but the tournament has adopted a hybrid model, especially because of the fact that the Indian government did not allow the national cricket team to travel to Pakistan for the tournament due to the political tension between the two countries.
The rivalry between India and Pakistan has always been heated and the match holds great emotions and passions for the fans of both the nations. This time, things will be no different. Moreover, the stakes will be even higher for Pakistan. The hosts lost their first match of the tournament against New Zealand. If they lose their match against India, their chances of qualifying for the semifinals will be very slim. Not qualifying for the semis in a tournament that they are hosting will be extremely disappointing. Thus, their hunger to win tomorrow will be very high.
On the other hand, there’s bad news for Team India fans. Wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant was unable to take part in today’s practice ahead of the clash against Pakistan owing to viral fever and it has been verified by Shubman Gill. It’s thus confirmed that KL Rahul will be playing in the match tomorrow while Rishab Pant will be resting. Thus, Team India’s playing XI is more or less decided now.
India played brilliantly in their first match of the tournament against Bangladesh. The Tigers gave a good fight too but ended up losing the match to the Blues. It was the Indian batting attack that tipped the scales in their favor in the second innings.
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