Harbhajan Singh Identifies the Star Pakistani Player Who Could Steal the Show in ICC Champions Trophy 2025

New Delhi: The cricket rivalry between India and Pakistan is renowned for its intensity in the world of sports. This highly anticipated encounter goes beyond just a game, with fans emotionally invested in the outcome. For many supporters, defeating the opposing team carries more weight than winning the entire tournament. Unfortunately, these two teams face off mainly during ICC events and the Asia Cup, adding to the excitement and tension surrounding their matches.

The two arch-rivals are scheduled to compete in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at Dubai International Stadium on February 23. Tickets for this highly anticipated match sold out just hours after they were made available. In the lead-up to the event, former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh expressed his opinion that the matches between India and Pakistan are overhyped. He pointed out the disparity in quality between the teams, predicting that the match would be one-sided. Nevertheless, he mentioned that Fakhar Zaman could be a player capable of turning the game in Pakistan’s favor during the Champions Trophy.

“India and Pakistan. You heard it right-this is an overhyped match between India and Pakistan. Because there is nothing in it,” Harbhajan Singh said on a YouTube show.

“Look at their main batters. Their star batter is Babar Azam. His average against India is 31. If you are a top batter, you have to average around 50. Then, there is Rizwan. I like him as a player. He plays freely. But his average against India is 25. Fakhar Zaman, their only full-time opener, has an average of 46. It’s a good average. Fakhar can take the game away from India.”

“Faheem Ashraf averages 12.5! I don’t think he will be a big threat. Saud Shakeel has an average of 8 against India.

“Looking at their batting line-up, I don’t get the confidence that this team will even fight,” Harbhajan said.

India will advance to the Champions Trophy following a decisive 3-0 victory over England. In contrast, Pakistan experienced back-to-back losses against New Zealand in the tri-series. Harbhajan expressed support for New Zealand to overcome Pakistan prior to the match against India.

“Recently, India hammered England at home. On the other hand, Pakistan lost to New Zealand in a tri-series at home.

“Keep in mind, New Zealand will play the first match against Pakistan. I think New Zealand will hammer Pakistan once again. Because, New Zealand seem to have understood the conditions and tactics.

“India are way ahead at this stage. I think it will be a one-sided game. It’s an overhyped contest. Yes, the tickets have been prized high. But, I don’t think we will get a lot of fun watching this one-sided match,” Harbhajan said.