Champions Trophy, India vs Pakistan: Who Will Triumph in Dubai?

Team India will eye for the semifinal spot, whereas Pakistan, who suffered a 60-run defeat against New Zealand, look to avoid an early exit from the tournament.

Rohit Sharma-led Indian side looks better positioned after their six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the opener. The skipper Rohit Sharma scored a crucial 41 runs in the first match but could not convert it into a substantial innings. However, if he bats for a long period, he can certainly take the game away from the opposition. Rohit’s opening partner, Shubhman Gill, is in good form, which is a good sign for Team India.

Virat Kohli’s form has been a concern, but India has a good middle and lower order with players like Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and they have been contributing well to the team in the recent games.

Coming to the bowling, Shami made a strong comeback with a fifer against Bangladesh and will look to deliver against Pakistan as well. India will certainly miss Bumrah, but Harshit Rana, who took his place in the opening match, made an impression by taking 3 wickets.

Pakistan, on the other hand, will be under pressure as it is a must-win situation for them. Pakistan’s batting will depend on star batter Babar Azam and captain Rizwan after their explosive left-handed opener Fakhar Zaman was ruled out due to an injury. Babar scored 64 runs in 90 balls against New Zealand but was criticised for being too slow.

Middle-order batter Khushdil Shah’s 69-run innings in the tournament opener is a positive sign for Pakistan. Their bowling attack led by Shaheen Afridi was hammered by the Kiwis in the opener, but they will look to bounce back against India.

India has a better winning record over Pakistan in Dubai and appears to be in a much better position compared to Pakistan. The absence of Fakhar Zaman will be a blow for Pakistan. The Pakistan side cannot be underestimated, but India has an advantage over Pakistan in this match.