India Faces Pakistan in Champions Trophy as Rivalry Heats Up

India opts for neutral venue in Dubai citing security concerns, while Pakistan expresses disappointment over missed opportunity to host.

India and Pakistan, arch-rivals in cricket, clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Group A match at Dubai International Stadium.
India chose not to play in Pakistan due to security concerns, with all their matches being held in Dubai under a hybrid hosting model agreed upon by the ICC, PCB, and BCCI.
Pakistan's Imam-ul-Haq replaced injured Fakhar Zaman in the XI, while India retained their winning combination from their opener against Bangladesh.
Key moments included Hardik Pandya dismissing Babar Azam early and Axar Patel's remarkable direct-hit run-out of Imam-ul-Haq, shifting momentum in India's favor.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi criticized India's decision to avoid playing in Pakistan, highlighting the missed opportunity for cultural and cricketing exchange.