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The stage is set for a high-stakes battle as defending champions Pakistan take on arch-rivals India in match No. 5 of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on Sunday, February 23. The Group A encounter will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in what promises to be a thrilling contest.
For Pakistan, this is a do-or-die match—a defeat here would push them to the brink of elimination from the tournament.
Pakistan’s Qualification Scenarios: What’s at Stake?
If Pakistan lose to India & New Zealand beat Bangladesh (Monday, Feb 24):
Pakistan are eliminated from the Champions Trophy 2025.
If Pakistan lose to India & NZ vs BAN is washed out:
Pakistan are also knocked out.
If Pakistan lose to India & Bangladesh beat New Zealand:
Pakistan remain in contention, but their fate will depend on:
Beating Bangladesh by a big margin on February 27.
Hoping India beat New Zealand by a big margin.
Pakistan finishing second in Group A based on superior net run rate.
Simply put: A win against India is Pakistan’s safest route to staying in the tournament!
Pakistan’s Journey to the Semifinals
For Pakistan to keep their title defence alive, they must:
Beat India on Sunday to stay in contention.
Defeat Bangladesh in their final Group A match on February 27 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
A loss to India on Sunday would mean Pakistan must rely on other results to qualify—a risky scenario in such a competitive tournament.
Can Pakistan Defend Their Title? History Says It's Tough!
Only Australia has successfully defended its Champions Trophy title, winning back-to-back in 2006 & 2009.
Only one host nation has ever lifted the Champions Trophy—Sri Lanka in 2002, when they were declared joint-winners with India after rain washed out the final twice.
With history not in Pakistan’s favor, the Men in Green must bring their A-game to survive and fight for a spot in the semifinals.
Match Preview: India vs Pakistan – What to Expect?
Rivalry Renewed: One of the biggest showdowns in world cricket.
Pressure on Pakistan: A must-win game to stay in the tournament.
India’s Chance: A win seals their spot in the semifinals as Group A leaders.
