ICC Champions Trophy 2025, India vs Pakistan: Hardik Pandya creates HISTORY, becomes first player in the world to achieve this incredible feat

New Delhi: The highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy match between India and Pakistan is currently underway at the Dubai International Stadium. Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat first, but faced early setbacks with Babar Azam being dismissed for 23 by Hardik Pandya, caught by KL Rahul. Imam Ul Haq also fell cheaply, giving India the early advantage. India's bowling attack proved to be on top form as they bowled out Pakistan for 242 runs, with Kuldeep Yadav being the standout performer. Yadav claimed three wickets for just 40 runs at an impressive economy rate of 4.4, leading the bowling attack. With a target of 243, India will now look to chase down the total and secure a crucial victory in this highly anticipated match.

Imam Ul Haq was run out by Axar Patel for 10, leaving Pakistan in early trouble. The quick dismissals of Babar and Imam put Pakistan on the back foot, but captain Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel steadied the innings with a crucial century stand. Just as Pakistan looked ready to accelerate, they suffered twin setbacks—Rizwan (46) fell to Axar Patel, while Shakeel (62) was dismissed by Hardik Pandya. Ravindra Jadeja then removed Tayyab Tahir, further adding to Pakistan’s woes.

Shakeel’s wicket also marked a milestone for Hardik Pandya, taking his tally against Pakistan in ICC tournaments to 15—the most by any bowler. He surpassed Mitchell Starc, who has 11 wickets against Pakistan in ICC events.

This is a do-or-die match for Pakistan as they fight to stay alive in the tournament. A loss to India would severely dent their chances of making it to the semifinals. With India being a formidable chasing side, Pakistan will need a target of around 250 to stay competitive. However, the pitch is proving to be challenging for batting, and chasing could become difficult in the second innings. To post a fighting total, Pakistan will rely on Salman Agha and Khushdil Shah to build a solid partnership and stabilize the innings.