<p>The Indian men’s cricket team will play against Pakistan in a Group A clash of the Asia Cup 2025 on September 14 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, UAE. While the buzz for the clash is on its peak, the off-field market has already sky rocketed. The broadcasters of the tournament have already prepared huge advertisement rates for the India vs Pakistan clash, which will be the highlight reel.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The ad rates for India’s matches have been set between ₹14–16 lakh for a 10-second slot, and &nbsp;particularly for the India vs Pakistan match, slot is priced at ₹16 lakh ($18,357), a report from The Economic Times read.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The tournament will be aired on Sony Sports Network and will live streamed on SonyLIV as broadcasters an digital partners get ready for a huge chunk of cash. So lets have a look at the price of ads packages and digital deals on the Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI).</p><h3>Ad packages on TV</h3><ul><li>Co-presenting sponsorship: ₹18 crore ($2,065,719)</li><li>Associate sponsorship: ₹13 crore ($1,491,908)</li><li>Spot-buy package (all India and non-India games): ₹16 lakh per 10 seconds, or ₹4.48 crore ($514,071)</li></ul><h3>Digital deals on Sony LIV</h3><ul><li>Co-presenting and highlights partner: ₹30 crore each ($3,442,629)</li><li>Co-powered-by package: ₹18 crore ($2,065,719)</li><li>30 % of all digital ads are reserved for India matches</li></ul><h3>Ad rates by format</h3><ul><li>Pre-rolls: ₹275 per 10 seconds (₹500 for India games; ₹750 for India-Pakistan)</li><li>Mid-rolls: ₹225 (₹400 for India games; ₹600 for India-Pakistan)</li><li>Connected TV ads: ₹450 (₹800 for India games; ₹1,200 for India-Pakistan)</li></ul><h3>Asia Cup 2025</h3><p>The Asia Cup 2025 will be held from September 9 to 28 in the T20I format and will feature 19 matches across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Team India will open their Group A campaign against the UAE on September 10 in Dubai, followed by the much-anticipated high voltage match against the Pakistan on September 14 at the same venue. Their final group-stage game will be against Oman in Abu Dhabi on September 19.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read </strong>- <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2025-full-list-of-title-winners-from-1984-to-2025-check-how-many-titles-india-pakistan-won-1753697714393">Asia Cup 2025: Full list of title winners from 1984 to 2025, check how many times India, Pakistan won</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Defending Champions India, along with Pakistan, Oman and UAE are placed in Group A, while Group B consists of other four teams - Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Hong Kong and Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

The 2025 men's Asia Cup (T20I) will kick off with eight teams participating in this edition. Although India is the official host, but United Arab Emirates (UAE) will stage all the matches.

The Indian men’s cricket team will play against Pakistan in a Group A clash of the Asia Cup 2025 on September 14 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, UAE. While the buzz for the clash is on its peak, the off-field market has already sky rocketed. The broadcasters of the tournament have already prepared huge advertisement rates for the India vs Pakistan clash, which will be the highlight reel. The ad rates for India’s matches have been set between ₹14–16 lakh for a 10-second slot, and particularly for the India vs Pakistan match, slot is priced at ₹16 lakh ($18,357), a report from The Economic Times read. The tournament will be aired on Sony Sports Network and will live streamed on SonyLIV as broadcasters an digital partners get ready for a huge chunk of cash. So lets have a look at the price of ads packages and digital deals on the Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI). Ad packages on TV Co-presenting sponsorship: ₹18 crore ($2,065,719) Associate sponsorship: ₹13 crore ($1,491,908) Spot-buy package (all India and non-India games): ₹16 lakh per 10 seconds, or ₹4.48 crore ($514,071) Digital deals on Sony LIV Co-presenting and highlights partner: ₹30 crore each ($3,442,629) Co-powered-by package: ₹18 crore ($2,065,719) 30 % of all digital ads are reserved for India matches Ad rates by format Pre-rolls: ₹275 per 10 seconds (₹500 for India games; ₹750 for India-Pakistan) Mid-rolls: ₹225 (₹400 for India games; ₹600 for India-Pakistan) Connected TV ads: ₹450 (₹800 for India games; ₹1,200 for India-Pakistan) Asia Cup 2025 The Asia Cup 2025 will be held from September 9 to 28 in the T20I format and will feature 19 matches across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Team India will open their Group A campaign against the UAE on September 10 in Dubai, followed by the much-anticipated high voltage match against the Pakistan on September 14 at the same venue. Their final group-stage game will be against Oman in Abu Dhabi on September 19. Also Read - Asia Cup 2025: Full list of title winners from 1984 to 2025, check how many times India, Pakistan won Defending Champions India, along with Pakistan, Oman and UAE are placed in Group A, while Group B consists of other four teams - Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Hong Kong and Afghanistan.

<p>The ad rates for India’s matches have been set between ₹14–16 lakh for a 10-second slot, and &nbsp;particularly for the India vs Pakistan match, slot is priced at ₹16 lakh ($18,357).&nbsp;</p>

Asia Cup 2025: India vs Pakistan clash in Dubai hikes ad rates up to ₹16 lakh per 10 seconds, check full details

<p>Pakistan selector and former pacer Aaqib Javed has fired shots at the Indian Cricket Team ahead of the marquee 2025 Asia Cup tie on September 14 in Dubai, saying the team, picked on Sunday (Aug 17), can beat anyone, including the Men in Blue, in the forthcoming continental tournament starting September 19 in the UAE. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-babar-azam-mohammad-rizwan-dropped-as-pakistan-announce-squad-for-asia-cup-2025-1755415735161">Pakistan selectors announced the 17-man squad for the triangular T20I series and the eight-team tournament</a> that follows, shockingly leaving out batting stalwarts Babar Azam and keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan. While India, Pakistan, Oman and the UAE are part of Group A, the remaining four teams (Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Hong Kong) consist of Group B.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Even though the picked squad has some experienced players to shoulder the burden, Javed feels this team has everything it needs to topple India in the 2025 Asia Cup.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“This team has the ability to beat India in the Asia Cup. Whether you like it or not, the match between India and Pakistan is the biggest in world cricket. Every player knows this,” PAK selector Javed said to the reporters on Sunday. “Our squad can beat any team. Everyone is ready. Everyone knows the situation surrounding the two countries. But we don't need to put extra pressure on them."<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, India and Pakistan might face off more than just once or even twice during this tournament. After their slated group game in Dubai, the two can again come up against each other in the next round (Super 4s), potentially a week later on next Sunday (Sep 21), should both top Group A. However, if they beat all their opponents to stand tall, India and Pakistan could end up facing each other in the 2025 Asia Cup final, which hasn't happened in the tournament's history thus far.</p><h3>Sour relations between arch-rivals<br>&nbsp;</h3><p>India and Pakistan share tense relations heading into the 2025 Asia Cup. After Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 innocent lives in broad daylight (on April 22) in India’s Kashmir in the deadliest attack on Indian soil since the 2019 Pulwama bombing, India retaliated with Operation Sindoor a fortnight later, triggering cross-border escalation.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, despite the Indian Government’s efforts to boycott Pakistan on all fronts, its cricket board (BCCI) shockingly agreed to play against them in the 2025 Asia Cup, receiving massive backlash from the netizens.&nbsp;</p>

Even though the picked squad has some experienced players to shoulder the burden, PAK selector Javed feels this team has everything it needs to topple India in the 2025 Asia Cup.

Pakistan selector and former pacer Aaqib Javed has fired shots at the Indian Cricket Team ahead of the marquee 2025 Asia Cup tie on September 14 in Dubai, saying the team, picked on Sunday (Aug 17), can beat anyone, including the Men in Blue, in the forthcoming continental tournament starting September 19 in the UAE. The Pakistan selectors announced the 17-man squad for the triangular T20I series and the eight-team tournament that follows, shockingly leaving out batting stalwarts Babar Azam and keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan. While India, Pakistan, Oman and the UAE are part of Group A, the remaining four teams (Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Hong Kong) consist of Group B. Even though the picked squad has some experienced players to shoulder the burden, Javed feels this team has everything it needs to topple India in the 2025 Asia Cup. “This team has the ability to beat India in the Asia Cup. Whether you like it or not, the match between India and Pakistan is the biggest in world cricket. Every player knows this,” PAK selector Javed said to the reporters on Sunday. “Our squad can beat any team. Everyone is ready. Everyone knows the situation surrounding the two countries. But we don't need to put extra pressure on them." Meanwhile, India and Pakistan might face off more than just once or even twice during this tournament. After their slated group game in Dubai, the two can again come up against each other in the next round (Super 4s), potentially a week later on next Sunday (Sep 21), should both top Group A. However, if they beat all their opponents to stand tall, India and Pakistan could end up facing each other in the 2025 Asia Cup final, which hasn't happened in the tournament's history thus far. Sour relations between arch-rivals India and Pakistan share tense relations heading into the 2025 Asia Cup. After Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 innocent lives in broad daylight (on April 22) in India’s Kashmir in the deadliest attack on Indian soil since the 2019 Pulwama bombing, India retaliated with Operation Sindoor a fortnight later, triggering cross-border escalation. Meanwhile, despite the Indian Government’s efforts to boycott Pakistan on all fronts, its cricket board (BCCI) shockingly agreed to play against them in the 2025 Asia Cup, receiving massive backlash from the netizens.

<p>Even though the picked squad has some experienced players to shoulder the burden, PAK selector Javed feels this team has everything it needs to topple India in the 2025 Asia Cup.</p>

Pakistan selector warns India ahead of Asia Cup tie, says ‘This team has ability to beat…’

From Virat Kohli to MS Dhoni, here is a look at five batters with highest individual scores in India vs Pakistan limited overs matches. The list also features the likes of Saeed Anwar, Sourav Ganguly and Shoaib Malik. 

<p>From Virat Kohli to MS Dhoni, here is a look at five batters with highest individual scores in India vs Pakistan limited overs matches. The list also features the likes of Saeed Anwar, Sourav Ganguly and Shoaib Malik.&nbsp;</p>

From Virat Kohli to MS Dhoni, 5 batters with highest individual scores in India vs Pakistan matches (limited overs)

As India celebrates its 79th Independence Day on Friday (Aug 15), it’s time we look at the Indian cricketers, who at some point in their careers also represented Pakistan.

<p>As India celebrates its 79th Independence Day on Friday (Aug 15), it’s time we look at the Indian cricketers, who at some point in their careers also represented Pakistan.</p>

Independence Day 2025: Indian Cricketers who played for Pakistan post partition

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, here is a look at five Indian batters with the most runs in India vs Pakistan T20Is. The list also includes star names like Yuvraj Singh, Gautam Gambhir and Rishabh Pant. 

<p>From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, here is a look at five Indian batters with the most runs in India vs Pakistan T20Is. The list also includes star names like Yuvraj Singh, Gautam Gambhir and Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;</p>

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, 5 Indian batters with the most runs in India vs Pakistan T20Is

<p>Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, reportedly told a private gathering in Tampa, Florida, that Pakistan would “take half the world down” if it was going down—and that Indian dams could be “finished with 10 missiles.” These lines were relayed by attendees of a closed-door dinner; there’s no public video or official transcript, but multiple outlets carried the account on 10–11 August. Treat the quotes as reported, not proven. Still, the message is clear: open nuclear brinkmanship, delivered on American soil.</p><p>Why say this in the US, and why now?&nbsp;</p><p>Three reasons stand out. First, timing: Munir’s remarks coincided with the US Central Command’s change-of-command ceremony in Tampa on 10 August, where Gen Michael E Kurilla handed charge to Adm Brad Cooper. The event drew senior American brass and global attention, giving Munir a big stage on the sidelines. Second, access: his visit included meetings with top US military leaders, keeping Pakistan in Washington’s line of sight during a period when Islamabad worries about fading influence. Third, audience: speaking in Florida let him rally the Pakistani diaspora and signal to US policymakers that Pakistan is still “too risky to ignore.” That’s classic “weaponising instability”—reminding the world that isolation could be costly.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-army-chief-asim-munir-s-second-u-s-visit-after-june-1754881143466/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-army-chief-asim-munir-s-second-u-s-visit-after-june-1754881143466/embed</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Now to capability versus rhetoric. Pakistan is a nuclear weapons state with an estimated triple-digit arsenal and a broad missile mix—short-range systems like Nasr/Ababeel for battlefield roles and medium-range systems like Shaheen and Ghauri able to reach anywhere in India. That is real deterrent power. But the claim of “taking down half the world” is theatre. Pakistan has no publicly known intercontinental-range system in service; its credible reach is regional, not global. So, while the threat is frightening, it is not a realistic description of worldwide strike ability. (This is why many observers see the Tampa lines as psychological pressure, not a war plan.)</p><p>What about the “10 missiles for Indian dams” line? Hitting large dams is not just a military act—it is ecological warfare with mass-casualty potential downstream on the Indus system. The point of saying it aloud is to frighten, raise crisis costs, and deter India from building leverage after New Delhi held the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance post-crisis. But again, saying it in the US is the real tactic: to broadcast risk before American ears and nudge Washington to lean on India.</p><p>India’s response space is broader than it was a decade ago. In July–August, Indian officials and experts have spoken more openly about the tools used in May’s crisis response—BrahMos leading precision strikes and Akashteer guarding the skies. This isn’t chest-thumping; it is quiet signalling that India has credible conventional options and an improving defensive shield. Politically too, the ruling coalition has framed Operations Sindoor/Mahadev as a “new normal” of proportionate but firm action after terror attacks, which supports continued investment in readiness.</p><p>On the defensive side, India fields layered measures: long-range detection networks, quick-reaction surface-to-air systems, and high-end imports like the S-400 integrated with indigenous command-and-control (e.g., Akashteer). None of this makes India invulnerable—missile defence never offers a 100% wall—but it raises the bar for any attacker and preserves decision-time for leaders in a fast-moving crisis. The message to any “10 missiles” talk is simple: some will be shot down, and any strike invites a calibrated and punishing response.</p><p>On the nuclear side, India’s doctrine remains centred on credible minimum deterrence and a strong retaliatory capability, historically paired with no-first-use language. Pakistan’s habit of speaking loosely about nuclear use to shield sub-conventional actions is meant to narrow India’s choices. But the pattern since early May shows India using precise conventional force, information discipline, and political signalling rather than rushing up the nuclear ladder. That mix preserves deterrence while denying Pakistan an easy escalatory narrative.</p><p><i>So, what was the context in July and August that pushed Munir toward such talk? Three threads:</i></p><p>• <strong>US stagecraft:</strong> With a CENTCOM handover in Tampa, Pakistan’s top general had a rare, concentrated American audience. Loud words travel fast in that setting.</p><p>• <strong>Narrative contest post-crisis:</strong> India has been publicly detailing the professionalism and indigenous content behind its May response. That undercuts Pakistan’s old script that India will self-deter. The Tampa rhetoric tries to restore fear.</p><p>• <strong>Diaspora leverage:</strong> Closed-door diaspora events are ideal for fund-raising, lobbying, and message seeding. A dramatic line—“half the world”—gets headlines back home and pressure points abroad.</p><p>Where does this leave India? First, do not overreact to bluster. Treat the Tampa quotes as reported but unverified; respond to the <strong>risk</strong>, not the <strong>noise</strong>. Second, keep strengthening the conventional edge—more standoff precision, better air defence coverage, faster decision loops. Third, continue clear political signalling: India will hit back proportionately after terrorism—without taking the bait of reckless rhetoric. Recent government and industry messaging in August shows exactly that balance.</p><p>Finally, a word on American optics. The US military just shifted CENTCOM leadership, and Washington’s bandwidth is divided across theatres. Munir’s aim in Tampa was to force attention—by linking Pakistan’s fate to global catastrophe. The better answer—for India, the US, and the region—is to refuse nuclear blackmail as a diplomatic tool, maintain channels for crisis management, and keep building India’s credible, layered deterrence so that threats about “half the world” stay where they belong: in the realm of desperate talk, not doable action.</p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

Asim Munir's claim of “taking down half the world” is theatre. Pakistan has no publicly known intercontinental-range system in service; its credible reach is regional, not global

Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, reportedly told a private gathering in Tampa, Florida, that Pakistan would “take half the world down” if it was going down—and that Indian dams could be “finished with 10 missiles.” These lines were relayed by attendees of a closed-door dinner; there’s no public video or official transcript, but multiple outlets carried the account on 10–11 August. Treat the quotes as reported, not proven. Still, the message is clear: open nuclear brinkmanship, delivered on American soil. Why say this in the US, and why now? Three reasons stand out. First, timing: Munir’s remarks coincided with the US Central Command’s change-of-command ceremony in Tampa on 10 August, where Gen Michael E Kurilla handed charge to Adm Brad Cooper. The event drew senior American brass and global attention, giving Munir a big stage on the sidelines. Second, access: his visit included meetings with top US military leaders, keeping Pakistan in Washington’s line of sight during a period when Islamabad worries about fading influence. Third, audience: speaking in Florida let him rally the Pakistani diaspora and signal to US policymakers that Pakistan is still “too risky to ignore.” That’s classic “weaponising instability”—reminding the world that isolation could be costly. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-army-chief-asim-munir-s-second-u-s-visit-after-june-1754881143466/embed Now to capability versus rhetoric. Pakistan is a nuclear weapons state with an estimated triple-digit arsenal and a broad missile mix—short-range systems like Nasr/Ababeel for battlefield roles and medium-range systems like Shaheen and Ghauri able to reach anywhere in India. That is real deterrent power. But the claim of “taking down half the world” is theatre. Pakistan has no publicly known intercontinental-range system in service; its credible reach is regional, not global. So, while the threat is frightening, it is not a realistic description of worldwide strike ability. (This is why many observers see the Tampa lines as psychological pressure, not a war plan.) What about the “10 missiles for Indian dams” line? Hitting large dams is not just a military act—it is ecological warfare with mass-casualty potential downstream on the Indus system. The point of saying it aloud is to frighten, raise crisis costs, and deter India from building leverage after New Delhi held the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance post-crisis. But again, saying it in the US is the real tactic: to broadcast risk before American ears and nudge Washington to lean on India. India’s response space is broader than it was a decade ago. In July–August, Indian officials and experts have spoken more openly about the tools used in May’s crisis response—BrahMos leading precision strikes and Akashteer guarding the skies. This isn’t chest-thumping; it is quiet signalling that India has credible conventional options and an improving defensive shield. Politically too, the ruling coalition has framed Operations Sindoor/Mahadev as a “new normal” of proportionate but firm action after terror attacks, which supports continued investment in readiness. On the defensive side, India fields layered measures: long-range detection networks, quick-reaction surface-to-air systems, and high-end imports like the S-400 integrated with indigenous command-and-control (e.g., Akashteer). None of this makes India invulnerable—missile defence never offers a 100% wall—but it raises the bar for any attacker and preserves decision-time for leaders in a fast-moving crisis. The message to any “10 missiles” talk is simple: some will be shot down, and any strike invites a calibrated and punishing response. On the nuclear side, India’s doctrine remains centred on credible minimum deterrence and a strong retaliatory capability, historically paired with no-first-use language. Pakistan’s habit of speaking loosely about nuclear use to shield sub-conventional actions is meant to narrow India’s choices. But the pattern since early May shows India using precise conventional force, information discipline, and political signalling rather than rushing up the nuclear ladder. That mix preserves deterrence while denying Pakistan an easy escalatory narrative. So, what was the context in July and August that pushed Munir toward such talk? Three threads: • US stagecraft: With a CENTCOM handover in Tampa, Pakistan’s top general had a rare, concentrated American audience. Loud words travel fast in that setting. • Narrative contest post-crisis: India has been publicly detailing the professionalism and indigenous content behind its May response. That undercuts Pakistan’s old script that India will self-deter. The Tampa rhetoric tries to restore fear. • Diaspora leverage: Closed-door diaspora events are ideal for fund-raising, lobbying, and message seeding. A dramatic line—“half the world”—gets headlines back home and pressure points abroad. Where does this leave India? First, do not overreact to bluster. Treat the Tampa quotes as reported but unverified; respond to the risk, not the noise. Second, keep strengthening the conventional edge—more standoff precision, better air defence coverage, faster decision loops. Third, continue clear political signalling: India will hit back proportionately after terrorism—without taking the bait of reckless rhetoric. Recent government and industry messaging in August shows exactly that balance. Finally, a word on American optics. The US military just shifted CENTCOM leadership, and Washington’s bandwidth is divided across theatres. Munir’s aim in Tampa was to force attention—by linking Pakistan’s fate to global catastrophe. The better answer—for India, the US, and the region—is to refuse nuclear blackmail as a diplomatic tool, maintain channels for crisis management, and keep building India’s credible, layered deterrence so that threats about “half the world” stay where they belong: in the realm of desperate talk, not doable action.

<p>Asim Munir's claim of “taking down half the world” is theatre. Pakistan has no publicly known intercontinental-range system in service; its credible reach is regional, not global</p>

A Theatre of Fear: Why Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir's 'Half the World' gambit finds an unimpressed audience in India.

From Sachin Tendulkar to Yuvraj Singh, here is a list of five Indian batters with the most runs in India vs Pakistan. The list also contains legendary names like Rahul Dravid, Mohammad Azharuddin and Sourav Ganguly. 

<p>From Sachin Tendulkar to Yuvraj Singh, here is a list of five Indian batters with the most runs in India vs Pakistan. The list also contains legendary names like Rahul Dravid, Mohammad Azharuddin and Sourav Ganguly.&nbsp;</p>

From Sachin Tendulkar to Yuvraj Singh, 5 Indian batters with the most runs in India vs Pakistan ODIs

<p>The status of the Asia Cup 2025 could now be in limbo as fans and sponsors have continued to boycott the India vs Pakistan contest, and the latest warning came in the World Championship of Legends. On Wednesday (July 20), a major Indian sponsor in the ongoing WCL 2025 in England’s Birmingham pulled out after India were drawn against Pakistan in the semifinal clash. The sponsor released a statement stating, “terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand.”</p><h2><strong>Major sponsor pulls out of WCL 2025</strong></h2><p>“We applaud Team India @India_Champions for their outstanding performance in the World Championship of Legends, you’ve made the nation proud. However, the upcoming semi-final against Pakistan is not just another game. Terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand. EaseMyTrip, we stand with India,” founder Nishant Pitti said in a statement.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We cannot support any event that attempts to normalise relations with a country that promotes terrorism. The people of India have spoken and we hear them. EaseMyTrip will not be associated with the India vs Pakistan match in WCL. Some things are bigger than sport. Nation first, business later. Always. Jai Hind,” added the statement.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>With India and Pakistan paired up in the Asia Cup 2025, it has not received huge stardom with fans and sponsors ready to boycott the clash after the recent terror attacks in Pahalgam. Indian fans, former cricketers and politicians have called for a boycott of any ties with Pakistan.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-5th-test-bumrah-is-fit-to-bowl-as-per-his-workload-says-india-batting-coach-sitanshu-kotak-1753810202717"><strong>IND vs ENG, 5th Test: 'Bumrah is fit to bowl as per his workload', says India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier in a league game of the WCL 2025 against Pakistan, former India cricketers Harbhajan Singh, Shikhar Dhawan and Yusuf Pathan opted out after fan backlash. The match was consequently called off with players giving priority to national integrity.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>If the backlash continues, the Asia Cup match between India and Pakistan on September 14 could be in limbo. On Monday, Indian politician and leader of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), Asaduddin Owaisi, slammed the Asia Cricket Council (ACC) and called for a boycott of the India vs Pakistan clash in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.</p>

On Wednesday (July 20), a major Indian sponsor in the ongoing WCL 2025 in England’s Birmingham pulled out after India were drawn against Pakistan in the semifinal clash. The sponsor released a statement stating, “terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand.”

The status of the Asia Cup 2025 could now be in limbo as fans and sponsors have continued to boycott the India vs Pakistan contest, and the latest warning came in the World Championship of Legends. On Wednesday (July 20), a major Indian sponsor in the ongoing WCL 2025 in England’s Birmingham pulled out after India were drawn against Pakistan in the semifinal clash. The sponsor released a statement stating, “terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand.” Major sponsor pulls out of WCL 2025 “We applaud Team India @India_Champions for their outstanding performance in the World Championship of Legends, you’ve made the nation proud. However, the upcoming semi-final against Pakistan is not just another game. Terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand. EaseMyTrip, we stand with India,” founder Nishant Pitti said in a statement. “We cannot support any event that attempts to normalise relations with a country that promotes terrorism. The people of India have spoken and we hear them. EaseMyTrip will not be associated with the India vs Pakistan match in WCL. Some things are bigger than sport. Nation first, business later. Always. Jai Hind,” added the statement. With India and Pakistan paired up in the Asia Cup 2025, it has not received huge stardom with fans and sponsors ready to boycott the clash after the recent terror attacks in Pahalgam. Indian fans, former cricketers and politicians have called for a boycott of any ties with Pakistan. ALSO READ | IND vs ENG, 5th Test: 'Bumrah is fit to bowl as per his workload', says India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak Earlier in a league game of the WCL 2025 against Pakistan, former India cricketers Harbhajan Singh, Shikhar Dhawan and Yusuf Pathan opted out after fan backlash. The match was consequently called off with players giving priority to national integrity. If the backlash continues, the Asia Cup match between India and Pakistan on September 14 could be in limbo. On Monday, Indian politician and leader of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), Asaduddin Owaisi, slammed the Asia Cricket Council (ACC) and called for a boycott of the India vs Pakistan clash in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

<p>On Wednesday (July 20), a major Indian sponsor in the ongoing WCL 2025 in England’s Birmingham pulled out after India were drawn against Pakistan in the semifinal clash. The sponsor released a statement stating, “terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand.”</p>

India vs Pakistan, WCL: Major Indian sponsor withdraws, comments 'terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand'

<p>Indian politician and leader of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), Asaduddin Owaisi, has slammed the Asia Cricket Council (ACC) and called for a boycott of the India vs Pakistan clash in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. Speaking on Monday (July 28) in the Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian Parliament), Owaisi slammed the authorities and insisted that his conscience does not allow him to watch the Asia Cup match.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India and Pakistan are drawn in the same group in the upcoming Asia Cup and will meet on September 14, which will be the first meeting between the nations after the recent Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Since the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, the diplomatic ties between India and Pakistan are at an all-time low, with both keeping their airspace closed.</p><h2><strong>Owaisi calls for boycott of India vs Pakistan clash</strong></h2><p>"When Pakistan's aircraft cannot come into our airspace, their boat cannot come into our water, trade has ended, how will you play a cricket match with Pakistan? When we are not giving water, we are stopping 80 per cent of Pakistan's water, saying that blood and water will not flow, you will play a cricket match," said the 56-year-old MP.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"My conscience does not allow me to watch that match," asserted the Hyderabad MP, who has also been part of the government's outreach initiative following Operation Sindoor. Speaking on the floor of Lok Sabha, he asked if "the government has the courage to call those 25 dead people and say that we took revenge in Operation Sindoor and now you watch the Pakistan match."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-ashwin-slams-england-double-standards-over-handshake-saga-in-manchester-test-1753709560665"><strong>Ravi Ashwin slams England’s ‘double standards’ over ‘handshake saga’ in Manchester Test</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Asia Cup 2025 will begin on September 9, with India and Pakistan to meet on the first Sunday of the tournament. However, the clash has attracted huge criticism from Indian fans and former players, including Harbhajan Singh, Yusuf Pathan and others. The players, after public backlash, refused to take the field against Pakistan in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) clash in Edgbaston.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>It will now be interesting to see whether the Indian government interferes in the sporting matter to prevent India from facing Pakistan, or if the contest will go ahead as scheduled.</p>

India and Pakistan are drawn in the same group in the upcoming Asia Cup and will meet on September 14, which will be the first meeting between the nations after the recent Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor.

Indian politician and leader of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), Asaduddin Owaisi, has slammed the Asia Cricket Council (ACC) and called for a boycott of the India vs Pakistan clash in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. Speaking on Monday (July 28) in the Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian Parliament), Owaisi slammed the authorities and insisted that his conscience does not allow him to watch the Asia Cup match. India and Pakistan are drawn in the same group in the upcoming Asia Cup and will meet on September 14, which will be the first meeting between the nations after the recent Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Since the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, the diplomatic ties between India and Pakistan are at an all-time low, with both keeping their airspace closed. Owaisi calls for boycott of India vs Pakistan clash "When Pakistan's aircraft cannot come into our airspace, their boat cannot come into our water, trade has ended, how will you play a cricket match with Pakistan? When we are not giving water, we are stopping 80 per cent of Pakistan's water, saying that blood and water will not flow, you will play a cricket match," said the 56-year-old MP. "My conscience does not allow me to watch that match," asserted the Hyderabad MP, who has also been part of the government's outreach initiative following Operation Sindoor. Speaking on the floor of Lok Sabha, he asked if "the government has the courage to call those 25 dead people and say that we took revenge in Operation Sindoor and now you watch the Pakistan match." ALSO READ | Ravi Ashwin slams England’s ‘double standards’ over ‘handshake saga’ in Manchester Test The Asia Cup 2025 will begin on September 9, with India and Pakistan to meet on the first Sunday of the tournament. However, the clash has attracted huge criticism from Indian fans and former players, including Harbhajan Singh, Yusuf Pathan and others. The players, after public backlash, refused to take the field against Pakistan in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) clash in Edgbaston. It will now be interesting to see whether the Indian government interferes in the sporting matter to prevent India from facing Pakistan, or if the contest will go ahead as scheduled.

<p>India and Pakistan are drawn in the same group in the upcoming Asia Cup and will meet on September 14, which will be the first meeting between the nations after the recent Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor.</p>

'My conscience does not allow me to watch': Owaisi calls for boycott of India vs Pakistan Asia Cup match

<p>In a massive development surrounding the India vs Pakistan game in the 2025 Men’s Asia Cup, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) announced the complete schedule. The UAE will host the eight-team tournament in September (9 to 28). Outside of ACC’s five full members, including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, the remaining three teams are the hosts (UAE), Hong Kong and Oman, with all divided into two groups; India and Pakistan are drawn in one, Group A, alongside UAE and Oman, while the remaining four in Group B. The marquee India-Pakistan game is scheduled for Sunday (Sep 14) in the UAE.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Following ACC’s annual general meeting in Dhaka this past Thursday, its president and also PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced the complete schedule, including the final date of the India-Pakistan 2025 Asia Cup group game.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Keeping in mind the 2026 T20 World Cup (in India and Sri Lanka), the biennial tournament, to be played in the T20I format, will see the top two teams from each group advancing to the next stage (Super-Four), from where the top two sides will qualify for the final.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, given that India and Pakistan are in the same group, the chances of them facing each other more than once (thrice) are higher, should they qualify for the final, which, however, has never happened before in the 16 editions of the Asia Cup.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Moreover, India will remain the host of this tournament, and had it not been about the two country’s boards signing an agreement ahead of the Champions Trophy earlier this year, where they decided that neither will travel across the border for any cricket at any level (in this current FTP), forcing a neutral venue to host all of their respective games, India could have staged all games.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Also, considering the India-Pakistan game is the most lucrative affair in all of cricket, getting three of them during the 2025 Asia Cup, the second of which would most likely be on September 21, with the last, should both reach the final, would be a week later on September 28, would be bumper for the broadcasters. It, however, contradicts the very notion behind India's boycott of Pakistan on all fronts following the attack on India’s Kashmir by Pakistani-based terrorists (in April), which further led to escalating cross-border action a fortnight later.</p><h3>Here is the complete schedule of the 2025 Men’s Asia Cup –</h3><ul><li>September 9: Afghanistan vs Hong Kong</li><li>September 10: India vs UAE</li><li>September 11: Bangladesh vs Hong Kong</li><li>September 12: Pakistan vs Oman</li><li>September 13: Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka</li><li>September 14: India vs Pakistan</li><li>September 15: UAE vs Oman</li><li>September 15: Sri Lanka vs Hong Kong</li><li>September 16: Bangladesh vs Afghanistan</li><li>September 17: Pakistan vs UAE</li><li>September 18: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan</li><li>September 19: India vs Oman</li></ul><h3>Super 4 stage:</h3><ul><li>September 20: B1 vs B2</li><li>September 21: A1 vs A2</li><li>September 23: A2 vs B1</li><li>September 24: A1 vs B2</li><li>September 25: A2 vs B2</li><li>September 26: A1 vs B1</li></ul><p>FINAL: September 28</p>

Following ACC’s annual general meeting in Dhaka this past Thursday, its president and also PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced the complete schedule, including the final date of the India-Pakistan 2025 Asia Cup group game. 

In a massive development surrounding the India vs Pakistan game in the 2025 Men’s Asia Cup, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) announced the complete schedule. The UAE will host the eight-team tournament in September (9 to 28). Outside of ACC’s five full members, including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, the remaining three teams are the hosts (UAE), Hong Kong and Oman, with all divided into two groups; India and Pakistan are drawn in one, Group A, alongside UAE and Oman, while the remaining four in Group B. The marquee India-Pakistan game is scheduled for Sunday (Sep 14) in the UAE. Following ACC’s annual general meeting in Dhaka this past Thursday, its president and also PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced the complete schedule, including the final date of the India-Pakistan 2025 Asia Cup group game. Keeping in mind the 2026 T20 World Cup (in India and Sri Lanka), the biennial tournament, to be played in the T20I format, will see the top two teams from each group advancing to the next stage (Super-Four), from where the top two sides will qualify for the final. Meanwhile, given that India and Pakistan are in the same group, the chances of them facing each other more than once (thrice) are higher, should they qualify for the final, which, however, has never happened before in the 16 editions of the Asia Cup. Moreover, India will remain the host of this tournament, and had it not been about the two country’s boards signing an agreement ahead of the Champions Trophy earlier this year, where they decided that neither will travel across the border for any cricket at any level (in this current FTP), forcing a neutral venue to host all of their respective games, India could have staged all games. Also, considering the India-Pakistan game is the most lucrative affair in all of cricket, getting three of them during the 2025 Asia Cup, the second of which would most likely be on September 21, with the last, should both reach the final, would be a week later on September 28, would be bumper for the broadcasters. It, however, contradicts the very notion behind India's boycott of Pakistan on all fronts following the attack on India’s Kashmir by Pakistani-based terrorists (in April), which further led to escalating cross-border action a fortnight later. Here is the complete schedule of the 2025 Men’s Asia Cup – September 9: Afghanistan vs Hong Kong September 10: India vs UAE September 11: Bangladesh vs Hong Kong September 12: Pakistan vs Oman September 13: Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka September 14: India vs Pakistan September 15: UAE vs Oman September 15: Sri Lanka vs Hong Kong September 16: Bangladesh vs Afghanistan September 17: Pakistan vs UAE September 18: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan September 19: India vs Oman Super 4 stage: September 20: B1 vs B2 September 21: A1 vs A2 September 23: A2 vs B1 September 24: A1 vs B2 September 25: A2 vs B2 September 26: A1 vs B1 FINAL: September 28

<p>Following ACC’s annual general meeting in Dhaka this past Thursday, its president and also PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced the complete schedule, including the final date of the India-Pakistan 2025 Asia Cup group game.&nbsp;</p>

2025 Asia Cup Schedule: India-Pakistan in same group, to face on September 14 in UAE; check full list

<p>The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, has confirmed the dates and venue of the 17th edition of the Men’s Asia Cup, to be played in the T20I format, this year. Amid rumours of a potential 2025 Asia Cup schedule announcement following ACC’s annual general meeting in Dhaka (on Thursday), Naqvi revealed that the UAE will host the eight-team tournament from September 9 to September 28; he, however, kept mum on rumours of India and Pakistan being drawn in the same group.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The eight participating teams in the 2025 Men's Asia Cup include India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, the UAE, Hong Kong and Oman.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2025-navjot-sidhu-slams-gautam-gambhir-tactics-after-india-stare-at-series-defeat-in-manchester-1753526177394"><strong>IND vs ENG 2025: Sidhu slams Gambhir’s tactics after India stare at series-defeat in Manchester</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>The fate of this tournament, however, remained uncertain for the longest time following the India-Pakistan military tussle in May. Naqvi addressed the media following the conclusion of the ACC meeting, but remained quiet over its scheduling, keeping everyone wondering how many times the arch-rivals will face off in this biennial tournament.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Despite India remaining the host of the 2025 Asia Cup, an agreement signed between the two boards (BCCI and PCB) ahead of the Champions Trophy earlier this year will see a neutral venue staging this tournament. As per that mutual agreement, neither of the two countries will travel across the border for any bilateral or multi-team event during the current FTP, with a neutral venue hosting each other’s matches every time.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Since the BCCI denied sending Team India to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy due to security concerns, with Dubai hosting all India matches, including the semis and the finale, the PCB reciprocated by denying sending its team across the border for the 2025 Asia Cup, with the UAE (Dubai and Abu Dhabi) staging the tournament.</p><h3>What about India-Pakistan matches?<br>&nbsp;</h3><p>The India vs. Pakistan cricket match draws an unimaginable amount of engagement and money, thus making it the most lucrative affair of any multi-team tournament involving both.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Although nothing is confirmed yet, going by the generic norm, it looks likely that two Asian powerhouses will be drawn in the same group, which would see them facing against each other thrice (at best) – one during the group stage, one in Super Six, and one in the summit clash, should both make it that far. There has, however, never been an India-Pakistan Asia Cup final to date.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, Team India is the defending Asia Cup champions, having beaten Sri Lanka by ten wickets in the most lop-sided Asia Cup Final the last time (in Dubai). Sri Lanka, however, won the last T20I edition (in 2022), beating Pakistan in the final.</p>

The eight participating teams in the 2025 Men's Asia Cup include India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, the UAE, Hong Kong and Oman.

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, has confirmed the dates and venue of the 17th edition of the Men’s Asia Cup, to be played in the T20I format, this year. Amid rumours of a potential 2025 Asia Cup schedule announcement following ACC’s annual general meeting in Dhaka (on Thursday), Naqvi revealed that the UAE will host the eight-team tournament from September 9 to September 28; he, however, kept mum on rumours of India and Pakistan being drawn in the same group. The eight participating teams in the 2025 Men's Asia Cup include India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, the UAE, Hong Kong and Oman. Also read | IND vs ENG 2025: Sidhu slams Gambhir’s tactics after India stare at series-defeat in Manchester The fate of this tournament, however, remained uncertain for the longest time following the India-Pakistan military tussle in May. Naqvi addressed the media following the conclusion of the ACC meeting, but remained quiet over its scheduling, keeping everyone wondering how many times the arch-rivals will face off in this biennial tournament. Despite India remaining the host of the 2025 Asia Cup, an agreement signed between the two boards (BCCI and PCB) ahead of the Champions Trophy earlier this year will see a neutral venue staging this tournament. As per that mutual agreement, neither of the two countries will travel across the border for any bilateral or multi-team event during the current FTP, with a neutral venue hosting each other’s matches every time. Since the BCCI denied sending Team India to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy due to security concerns, with Dubai hosting all India matches, including the semis and the finale, the PCB reciprocated by denying sending its team across the border for the 2025 Asia Cup, with the UAE (Dubai and Abu Dhabi) staging the tournament. What about India-Pakistan matches? The India vs. Pakistan cricket match draws an unimaginable amount of engagement and money, thus making it the most lucrative affair of any multi-team tournament involving both. Although nothing is confirmed yet, going by the generic norm, it looks likely that two Asian powerhouses will be drawn in the same group, which would see them facing against each other thrice (at best) – one during the group stage, one in Super Six, and one in the summit clash, should both make it that far. There has, however, never been an India-Pakistan Asia Cup final to date. Meanwhile, Team India is the defending Asia Cup champions, having beaten Sri Lanka by ten wickets in the most lop-sided Asia Cup Final the last time (in Dubai). Sri Lanka, however, won the last T20I edition (in 2022), beating Pakistan in the final.

<p>The eight participating teams in the 2025 Men's Asia Cup include India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, the UAE, Hong Kong and Oman.</p>

2025 Asia Cup: ACC president Mohsin Naqvi confirms dates, venue; no word on India-Pakistan in same group rumour

<p>Amid escalating cross-border tensions and strained geopolitical relations, India and Pakistan would be drawn in the same group for the Asia Cup 2025. The latest report suggests that the arch-rivals have agreed to play against each other in the biennial tournament months after Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 innocent civilians in Pahalgam in India's Kashmir, leading to a war-like situation a fortnight later. Although India's robust response to the boycott of Pakistan made headlines worldwide, BCCI's decision to play them has irked fans, who are calling out the cricket board for not showing spine in the name of nationalism.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>However, considering the mutual agreement between both boards ahead of the Champions Trophy early this year, wherein neither of the two will travel across the border for any ICC event during the current FTP, Pakistan’s inclusion in this eight-team tournament will see a neutral venue (the UAE here) stage all matches in September this year. The BCCI will keep the hosting rights.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2025-england-opener-zak-crawley-admits-enjoying-his-role-in-time-wasting-row-in-lords-test-1753414515276"><strong>IND vs ENG 2025: England opener Crawley admits enjoying his role in ‘time-wasting row’ in Lord’s Test</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, following the barbaric attack in April, the deadliest on Indian soil since the 2019 Pulwama bombing, several reports of India withdrawing from the Asia Cup, to be played in the T20 format, circulated on social media; however, the BCCI refuted any such development, with its vice-president Rajeev Shukla, who virtually attended the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) in Dhaka, confirmed a final decision on scheduling remains under work.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“The BCCI will host the Asia Cup in the UAE. India is likely to play all its matches in Dubai. There are still deliberations on scheduling," an ACC source confirmed, as reported by PTI.</p><h3>India-Pakistan in the same group<br>&nbsp;</h3><p>The reports have also suggested that India and Pakistan will be drawn in the same group, meaning they will face each other twice – once in the group stage and then in the Super Six; the chances of them squaring off against each other in the summit clash also loom high.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>The BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia also confirmed the development in his official statement.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“Our vice-president, Rajeev Shukla, attended the ACC meeting. He will brief the members. I don’t believe in speculations, so you will get to know officially in a few days' time," BCCI secretary Saikia said.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, India and Pakistan last faced off during the Champions Trophy tie in February in Dubai, where India won the contest by six wickets, later clinching the tournament for the record third time.&nbsp;</p>

Although India's robust response to the boycott of Pakistan made headlines worldwide, BCCI's decision to play them has irked fans, who are calling out the cricket board for not showing spine in the name of nationalism.

Amid escalating cross-border tensions and strained geopolitical relations, India and Pakistan would be drawn in the same group for the Asia Cup 2025. The latest report suggests that the arch-rivals have agreed to play against each other in the biennial tournament months after Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 innocent civilians in Pahalgam in India's Kashmir, leading to a war-like situation a fortnight later. Although India's robust response to the boycott of Pakistan made headlines worldwide, BCCI's decision to play them has irked fans, who are calling out the cricket board for not showing spine in the name of nationalism. However, considering the mutual agreement between both boards ahead of the Champions Trophy early this year, wherein neither of the two will travel across the border for any ICC event during the current FTP, Pakistan’s inclusion in this eight-team tournament will see a neutral venue (the UAE here) stage all matches in September this year. The BCCI will keep the hosting rights. Also read | IND vs ENG 2025: England opener Crawley admits enjoying his role in ‘time-wasting row’ in Lord’s Test Meanwhile, following the barbaric attack in April, the deadliest on Indian soil since the 2019 Pulwama bombing, several reports of India withdrawing from the Asia Cup, to be played in the T20 format, circulated on social media; however, the BCCI refuted any such development, with its vice-president Rajeev Shukla, who virtually attended the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) in Dhaka, confirmed a final decision on scheduling remains under work. “The BCCI will host the Asia Cup in the UAE. India is likely to play all its matches in Dubai. There are still deliberations on scheduling," an ACC source confirmed, as reported by PTI. India-Pakistan in the same group The reports have also suggested that India and Pakistan will be drawn in the same group, meaning they will face each other twice – once in the group stage and then in the Super Six; the chances of them squaring off against each other in the summit clash also loom high. The BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia also confirmed the development in his official statement. “Our vice-president, Rajeev Shukla, attended the ACC meeting. He will brief the members. I don’t believe in speculations, so you will get to know officially in a few days' time," BCCI secretary Saikia said. Meanwhile, India and Pakistan last faced off during the Champions Trophy tie in February in Dubai, where India won the contest by six wickets, later clinching the tournament for the record third time.

<p>Although India's robust response to the boycott of Pakistan made headlines worldwide, BCCI's decision to play them has irked fans, who are calling out the cricket board for not showing spine in the name of nationalism.</p>

Asia Cup 2025: India-Pakistan to be drawn in same group, tournament to be held abroad – Report

<p>The India vs Pakistan veterans’ cricket match, scheduled for Sunday (Jul 21) at Edgbaston in Birmingham, is now cancelled after several Indian players, including former opener Shikhar Dhawan, withdrew their names from it citing the Pahalgam terror attack in April this year. The decision came after the players, also including Harbhajan Singh and the Pathan brothers, faced criticism on social media for agreeing to play Pakistan in the World Championship of Legends (WCL). However, the tournament, co-owned by Bollywood superstar Ajay Devgan, suffered another massive blow after one of its leading sponsors decided against continuing despite a five-year sponsorship agreement with the WCL.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>EaseMyTrip, WCL’s leading sponsor, stepped aside from honouring its commitment, citing its stance not to associate itself with any tournament or event that includes Pakistan cricketers.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Taking to their social media handle, EaseMyTrip posted, “Despite entering into a 5-year sponsorship agreement with the World Championship of Legends (WCL) two years ago, our stance has always been clear—EaseMyTrip will not be associated with or participate in any WCL match involving Pakistan.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“We proudly continue to support the India Champions and stand firmly by our team. However, as a matter of principle, we do not support or promote any match that includes Pakistan. This position was communicated unambiguously to the WCL team from the beginning.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“EaseMyTrip supports Team India, but will not engage in any match featuring Pakistan.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Let’s bring the cup home.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Bharat First. Always 🇮🇳.”</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Official Statement from EaseMyTrip<br><br>Despite entering into a 5-year sponsorship agreement with the World Championship of Legends (WCL) two years ago, our stance has always been clear—EaseMyTrip will not be associated with or participate in any WCL match involving Pakistan <br><br>We…</p>&mdash; EaseMyTrip.com (@EaseMyTrip) July 19, 2025</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>The WCL also posted a message on its social media handles, explaining that despite knowing what happened (on April 22) in Pahalgam, Kashmir, where Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 innocent lives in broad daylight, all tourists from India and abroad, they decided to have Pakistan participate in the tournament.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"After hearing the news that the Pakistan hockey team will be coming to India this year, and seeing the recent India vs Pakistan volleyball match along with a few other fixtures between the two nations in different sports, we thought of continuing with the India vs Pakistan match at WCL, just to create some happy memories for people around the globe. But maybe in the process, we ended up hurting the feelings of many and stirring emotions."<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“Hence, we have decided to call off the India-Pakistan match. We sincerely apologise again for hurting the sentiments and hope people will understand that all we ever wanted was to bring a few happy moments to the fans.”</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Dear all , pic.twitter.com/ViIlA3ZrLl</p>&mdash; World Championship Of Legends (@WclLeague) July 19, 2025</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Meanwhile, last year during the tournament’s inaugural edition, India had beaten Pakistan in Birmingham.&nbsp;</p>

The decision came after the players, also including Harbhajan Singh and the Pathan brothers, faced criticism on social media for agreeing to play Pakistan in the World Championship of Legends (WCL).

The India vs Pakistan veterans’ cricket match, scheduled for Sunday (Jul 21) at Edgbaston in Birmingham, is now cancelled after several Indian players, including former opener Shikhar Dhawan, withdrew their names from it citing the Pahalgam terror attack in April this year. The decision came after the players, also including Harbhajan Singh and the Pathan brothers, faced criticism on social media for agreeing to play Pakistan in the World Championship of Legends (WCL). However, the tournament, co-owned by Bollywood superstar Ajay Devgan, suffered another massive blow after one of its leading sponsors decided against continuing despite a five-year sponsorship agreement with the WCL. EaseMyTrip, WCL’s leading sponsor, stepped aside from honouring its commitment, citing its stance not to associate itself with any tournament or event that includes Pakistan cricketers. Taking to their social media handle, EaseMyTrip posted, “Despite entering into a 5-year sponsorship agreement with the World Championship of Legends (WCL) two years ago, our stance has always been clear—EaseMyTrip will not be associated with or participate in any WCL match involving Pakistan. “We proudly continue to support the India Champions and stand firmly by our team. However, as a matter of principle, we do not support or promote any match that includes Pakistan. This position was communicated unambiguously to the WCL team from the beginning. “EaseMyTrip supports Team India, but will not engage in any match featuring Pakistan. Let’s bring the cup home. Bharat First. Always 🇮🇳.”

<p>The decision came after the players, also including Harbhajan Singh and the Pathan brothers, faced criticism on social media for agreeing to play Pakistan in the World Championship of Legends (WCL).</p>

Massive blow to WCL as leading sponsor disassociates after India-Pakistan match called off

<p>The latest chapter in the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is all set to take place in Edgbaston as Indian Champions and Pakistan Champions go head-to-head in the World Championship of Legends 2025. The tournament kickstarted on Friday (July 18) with &nbsp;Pakistan Champions beating hosts England Champions by five runs. However, the focus now turns to the big encounter between India and Pakitsan in the WCL.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This match will be the fourth game of the tournament star names like Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh &nbsp;will be in action for Indian Champions, whereas for Pakistan Champions, names like Sharjeel Khan, Mohammad Hafeez and Shoaib Malik will take field.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Check - </strong><strong>From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill: 5 Indian batters with most runs in away Tests (since 2020)</strong></p><p><br><strong>Live streaming details</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>When is the India Champions vs Pakistan Champions match in the World Championship of Legends 2025?</strong></h2><p>The match between India Champions vs Pakistan Champions will be played on Sunday (July 20).</p><h2><strong>Where will the WCL 2025 match between India Champions vs Pakistan Champions be held?</strong></h2><p>The WCL 2025 match between India Champions vs Pakistan Champions will be held at Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham.</p><h2><strong>What time will the India Champions vs Pakistan Champions match start?</strong></h2><p>The game between India Champions vs Pakistan Champions will begin at 9 PM IST (4:30 PM local time). It is going to be an exciting contest with many former star players taking the field.</p><h2><strong>Where to watch the India Champions vs Pakistan Champions match live on TV?</strong></h2><p>The match between India Champions vs Pakistan Champions will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network.</p><h2><strong>Where to watch the live streaming of match between India Champions vs Pakistan Champions online?</strong></h2><p>Fans can watch the live stream of the match between India Champions vs Pakistan Champions on the FanCode app.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

The latest chapter in the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is all set to take place in Edgbaston as Indian Champions and Pakistan Champions go head-to-head in the World Championship of Legends 2025. 

The latest chapter in the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is all set to take place in Edgbaston as Indian Champions and Pakistan Champions go head-to-head in the World Championship of Legends 2025. The tournament kickstarted on Friday (July 18) with Pakistan Champions beating hosts England Champions by five runs. However, the focus now turns to the big encounter between India and Pakitsan in the WCL. This match will be the fourth game of the tournament star names like Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh will be in action for Indian Champions, whereas for Pakistan Champions, names like Sharjeel Khan, Mohammad Hafeez and Shoaib Malik will take field. Also Check - From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill: 5 Indian batters with most runs in away Tests (since 2020) Live streaming details When is the India Champions vs Pakistan Champions match in the World Championship of Legends 2025? The match between India Champions vs Pakistan Champions will be played on Sunday (July 20). Where will the WCL 2025 match between India Champions vs Pakistan Champions be held? The WCL 2025 match between India Champions vs Pakistan Champions will be held at Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham. What time will the India Champions vs Pakistan Champions match start? The game between India Champions vs Pakistan Champions will begin at 9 PM IST (4:30 PM local time). It is going to be an exciting contest with many former star players taking the field. Where to watch the India Champions vs Pakistan Champions match live on TV? The match between India Champions vs Pakistan Champions will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network. Where to watch the live streaming of match between India Champions vs Pakistan Champions online? Fans can watch the live stream of the match between India Champions vs Pakistan Champions on the FanCode app.

<p>The latest chapter in the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is all set to take place in Edgbaston as Indian Champions and Pakistan Champions go head-to-head in the World Championship of Legends 2025.&nbsp;</p>

IND vs PAK, WCL 2025: When and where to watch India vs Pakistan match live streaming in India?

<p>Asia Cup 2025 will get underway amid speculations, with both India and Pakistan confirmed to feature in it. India, the host of this year's six-team tournament, might not stage it, with the UAE tipped to be its host. Although nothing is confirmed yet, the latest reports suggest that the tournament might begin in early September, around the 10th. Despite heightened tensions between the arch-rivals India and Pakistan following ‘Operation Sindoor’, both teams will feature in the multi-team event to be played in the T20 format.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While earlier reports stated that the BCCI decided against participating in the Asia Cup this year for the reasons mentioned above, a top BCCI official is on record saying that "everything around the tournament was mere speculation, and nothing had been finalized so far."<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, earlier in June, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) announced that it was "rescheduling the ACC Women's Emerging Teams Asia Cup, previously set to commence on June 6, 2025, in Sri Lanka."&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-shastri-suggests-two-stadiums-one-from-india-which-can-draw-more-crowd-than-lord-s-for-wtc-final-1751199973523"><strong>Ravi Shastri suggests two stadiums, one from India, which can draw more crowd than Lord's for WTC Final</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>"The decision to postpone the tournament comes after consultations were held on a letter received from Shammi Silva, President of Sri Lanka Cricket Board, who wrote to the President of the ACC, seeking postponement of the event citing adverse weather conditions in Sri Lanka and health concerns owing to the spread of chikungunya disease in the region," the ACC statement said.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Besides India and Pakistan, the remaining four participating teams are Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and the UAE. Moreover, SONY LIV, the official broadcaster of this tournament, had already begun promotional activities for the Asia Cup, which was in the news of getting discarded following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, when Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 innocent lives in broad daylight.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>After the BCCI, PCB and ICC mutually decided that a neutral venue would host all India-Pakistan matches in the current FTP, a hybrid model was chosen for this tournament, with the UAE playing its host.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Also, in May this year, the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia denied reports of the Indian Cricket Board deciding to pull out of all tournaments organised by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) to isolate Pakistan, following the escalating tension between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

Besides India and Pakistan, the remaining four participating teams are Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and the UAE.

Asia Cup 2025 will get underway amid speculations, with both India and Pakistan confirmed to feature in it. India, the host of this year's six-team tournament, might not stage it, with the UAE tipped to be its host. Although nothing is confirmed yet, the latest reports suggest that the tournament might begin in early September, around the 10th. Despite heightened tensions between the arch-rivals India and Pakistan following ‘Operation Sindoor’, both teams will feature in the multi-team event to be played in the T20 format. While earlier reports stated that the BCCI decided against participating in the Asia Cup this year for the reasons mentioned above, a top BCCI official is on record saying that "everything around the tournament was mere speculation, and nothing had been finalized so far." Meanwhile, earlier in June, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) announced that it was "rescheduling the ACC Women's Emerging Teams Asia Cup, previously set to commence on June 6, 2025, in Sri Lanka." Also read | Ravi Shastri suggests two stadiums, one from India, which can draw more crowd than Lord's for WTC Final "The decision to postpone the tournament comes after consultations were held on a letter received from Shammi Silva, President of Sri Lanka Cricket Board, who wrote to the President of the ACC, seeking postponement of the event citing adverse weather conditions in Sri Lanka and health concerns owing to the spread of chikungunya disease in the region," the ACC statement said. Besides India and Pakistan, the remaining four participating teams are Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and the UAE. Moreover, SONY LIV, the official broadcaster of this tournament, had already begun promotional activities for the Asia Cup, which was in the news of getting discarded following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, when Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 innocent lives in broad daylight. After the BCCI, PCB and ICC mutually decided that a neutral venue would host all India-Pakistan matches in the current FTP, a hybrid model was chosen for this tournament, with the UAE playing its host. Also, in May this year, the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia denied reports of the Indian Cricket Board deciding to pull out of all tournaments organised by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) to isolate Pakistan, following the escalating tension between the two countries.

<p>Besides India and Pakistan, the remaining four participating teams are Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and the UAE.</p>

India, Pakistan to be part of Asia Cup 2025; six-team event to start by early September; final schedule out soon – Report

<p>The 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup will held from June 12 to July 5 in England. A total of 12 teams are participating and divided into two groups. Group 1 includes Australia, South Africa, India, Pakistan, and the other two qualify teams. Whereas Group 2 has host England, defending champions New Zealand, West Indies, Sri Lanka, and two other qualifiers.</p><p>There will be 33 matches played across seven venues in England over 24 days. The number of teams has increased from 10 in 2023 to 12 this time.</p><p>Also Read - <a href="India vs England 2025 Test series – All you need to know about fixtures, venues, live streaming and more">India vs England 2025 Test series – All you need to know about fixtures, venues, live streaming and more</a>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Venues and Timing -&nbsp;</strong> Matches will take place at The Oval, Lord’s, Old Trafford, Headingley, Southampton, Bristol, and Edgbaston. Games will start at different timings - 10:30 am, 2:30 pm, or 6:30 pm local time.</p><p>The tournament will begin with host England Women facing Sri Lanka Women at Edgbaston on June 12. New Zealand will start defending their title against West Indies in Southampton on June 13. On the same day, Australia will play South Africa in Manchester. India’s first match will be against Pakistan on June 14 at Edgbaston.</p><p>Other important matches for India women in Group 1 include, India vs South Africa on June 21 in Manchester and India vs Australia on June 28 at Lord’s. The top two teams from each group will move on to the semi-finals on June 30 and July 2. The final will be held at Lord’s on July 5.</p><p>Teams like England, Australia, India, New Zealand, South Africa, and West Indies qualified automatically for the tournament based on their 2024 performance. Pakistan and Sri Lanka also earned a place because of their high ICC T20I rankings as of October 21, 2024. The last four teams will be decided through global qualifiers in early 2026. Bangladesh, Scotland, USA, Nepal, and Thailand have already made it to that qualifying event. The remaining teams will come through regional qualifiers in Europe, Africa, and East Asia-Pacific.</p><p><strong>India schedule for Women's T20 World Cup 2026</strong></p><ul><li>June 14 - India vs Pakistan (Edgbaston)</li><li>June 17 - India vs Qualifier&nbsp; (Headingley)</li><li>June 21 - India vs South Africa (Old Trafford)</li><li>June 25 - India vs Qualifier (Old Trafford)</li><li>June 28 - India vs Australia (Lord’s)</li></ul>

The tournament will begin with host England Women facing Sri Lanka Women at Edgbaston on June 12. New Zealand will start defending their title against West Indies in Southampton on June 13. India’s first match will be against Pakistan on June 14 at Edgbaston.

The 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup will held from June 12 to July 5 in England. A total of 12 teams are participating and divided into two groups. Group 1 includes Australia, South Africa, India, Pakistan, and the other two qualify teams. Whereas Group 2 has host England, defending champions New Zealand, West Indies, Sri Lanka, and two other qualifiers. There will be 33 matches played across seven venues in England over 24 days. The number of teams has increased from 10 in 2023 to 12 this time. Also Read - India vs England 2025 Test series – All you need to know about fixtures, venues, live streaming and more Venues and Timing - Matches will take place at The Oval, Lord’s, Old Trafford, Headingley, Southampton, Bristol, and Edgbaston. Games will start at different timings - 10:30 am, 2:30 pm, or 6:30 pm local time. The tournament will begin with host England Women facing Sri Lanka Women at Edgbaston on June 12. New Zealand will start defending their title against West Indies in Southampton on June 13. On the same day, Australia will play South Africa in Manchester. India’s first match will be against Pakistan on June 14 at Edgbaston. Other important matches for India women in Group 1 include, India vs South Africa on June 21 in Manchester and India vs Australia on June 28 at Lord’s. The top two teams from each group will move on to the semi-finals on June 30 and July 2. The final will be held at Lord’s on July 5. Teams like England, Australia, India, New Zealand, South Africa, and West Indies qualified automatically for the tournament based on their 2024 performance. Pakistan and Sri Lanka also earned a place because of their high ICC T20I rankings as of October 21, 2024. The last four teams will be decided through global qualifiers in early 2026. Bangladesh, Scotland, USA, Nepal, and Thailand have already made it to that qualifying event. The remaining teams will come through regional qualifiers in Europe, Africa, and East Asia-Pacific. India schedule for Women's T20 World Cup 2026 June 14 - India vs Pakistan (Edgbaston) June 17 - India vs Qualifier (Headingley) June 21 - India vs South Africa (Old Trafford) June 25 - India vs Qualifier (Old Trafford) June 28 - India vs Australia (Lord’s)

<p>The tournament will begin with host England Women facing Sri Lanka Women at Edgbaston on June 12. New Zealand will start defending their title against West Indies in Southampton on June 13. India’s first match will be against Pakistan on June 14 at Edgbaston.</p>

Women's T20 World Cup 2026: India vs Pakistan on June 14, check full schedule inside

Countries with the most Nuclear weapons,  check where India stands in the list

<p>Out of 195 countries in the world, only nine have nukes, collectively holding around 12,331 nuclear warheads. Check the whole list here:&nbsp;</p>

Countries with the most nuclear weapons, check where India stands in the list

<p>India is scheduled to host the 2025 Asia Cup around September later this year. However, since the Pahalgam terror attack in late April and the military showdown between India and Pakistan that followed, all relations between them, including diplomatic ties, have gone sour, with their respective cricket boards also maintaining silence over scheduled FTPs and their potential head-to-head clashes.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Although the BCCI remains firm in its stance of not playing Pakistan at any level across any format until the cross-border tension diffuses, further putting the future of this continental tournament in limbo, its counterpart, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), seemed to be irked and bothered by its silence. The latest reports suggest that the PCB is seeking alternatives should the BCCI decide against hosting or participating in the upcoming edition or dissolving this particular one altogether.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-2025-bcci-no-media-coverage-of-india-vs-india-a-intra-squad-practice-game-kent-know-why-1749800300103"><strong>India vs India-A, Intra-squad game: No live telecast for fans, know why</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Even though the BCCI and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) agreed on a hybrid model for this edition, following an agreement between the two boards since the 2025 Champions Trophy venue fiasco, both have stood their ground over not resuming talks around this multi-team tournament.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>A PTI report has confirmed developments from across the border, as the PCB has initiated talks with the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) over scheduling a tri-series between them and the UAE, should the 2025 Asia Cup stand cancelled for any reason.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“With the Asia Cup now unlikely to be held in India as originally planned in September due to the simmering relations between Pakistan and India, the PCB is working on another tri-series proposal,” a well-informed PCB source said in a chat with PTI.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“The idea is that if the Asia Cup is moved to the UAE, then Pakistan will play a tri-series with Afghanistan and the UAE in Dubai in August, replacing the Afghanistan tour to Pakistan,” he explained.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>The talks, however, are already underway with the two concerned boards.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“If the Asia Cup is cancelled or postponed, the PCB wants the Afghanistan and UAE teams to play the tri-series in Pakistan in August,” the source continued.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>The source also claimed that the ACC president, Mohsin Naqvi, also the PCB chairman, will soon hold talks about the 2025 Asia Cup.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“The Indian cricket board is yet to confirm its willingness to host the Asia Cup at home. So, it remains to be seen when the ACC council meets and makes a call on the future of the Asia Cup, which is to be held in the T20 format,” he added.</p>

Asia Cup 2025: Pakistan concerned by BCCI’s silence as PCB plans tri-series involving Afghanistan as backup – Report

India is scheduled to host the 2025 Asia Cup around September later this year. However, since the Pahalgam terror attack in late April and the military showdown between India and Pakistan that followed, all relations between them, including diplomatic ties, have gone sour, with their respective cricket boards also maintaining silence over scheduled FTPs and their potential head-to-head clashes. Although the BCCI remains firm in its stance of not playing Pakistan at any level across any format until the cross-border tension diffuses, further putting the future of this continental tournament in limbo, its counterpart, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), seemed to be irked and bothered by its silence. The latest reports suggest that the PCB is seeking alternatives should the BCCI decide against hosting or participating in the upcoming edition or dissolving this particular one altogether. Also read | India vs India-A, Intra-squad game: No live telecast for fans, know why Even though the BCCI and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) agreed on a hybrid model for this edition, following an agreement between the two boards since the 2025 Champions Trophy venue fiasco, both have stood their ground over not resuming talks around this multi-team tournament. A PTI report has confirmed developments from across the border, as the PCB has initiated talks with the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) over scheduling a tri-series between them and the UAE, should the 2025 Asia Cup stand cancelled for any reason. “With the Asia Cup now unlikely to be held in India as originally planned in September due to the simmering relations between Pakistan and India, the PCB is working on another tri-series proposal,” a well-informed PCB source said in a chat with PTI. “The idea is that if the Asia Cup is moved to the UAE, then Pakistan will play a tri-series with Afghanistan and the UAE in Dubai in August, replacing the Afghanistan tour to Pakistan,” he explained. The talks, however, are already underway with the two concerned boards. “If the Asia Cup is cancelled or postponed, the PCB wants the Afghanistan and UAE teams to play the tri-series in Pakistan in August,” the source continued. The source also claimed that the ACC president, Mohsin Naqvi, also the PCB chairman, will soon hold talks about the 2025 Asia Cup. “The Indian cricket board is yet to confirm its willingness to host the Asia Cup at home. So, it remains to be seen when the ACC council meets and makes a call on the future of the Asia Cup, which is to be held in the T20 format,” he added.

<p>The latest reports suggest that the PCB is seeking alternatives should the BCCI decide against hosting or participating in the upcoming edition or dissolving this particular one altogether.</p>

<p>Former Pakistan captain and perhaps their greatest-ever bowler, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wasim-akram" rel="dofollow">Wasim Akram</a>, has lambasted his country&rsquo;s &lsquo;embarrassing&rsquo; performance against India in the recently concluded Champions Trophy match in Dubai. On Sunday (Feb 23), the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/champions-trophy-india-wins-by-6-wickets-virat-kohli-scores-century-8750221" rel="dofollow">Men in Blue beat their arch-rivals by six wickets</a>, virtually knocking the hosts out of the tournament.</p>
<p>Speaking on a TV show after the game, Akram pleaded to the PCB chairman (Mohsin Naqvi) to address the selection howler that led to this outcome in the home tournament. Tearing into the final XI for the marquee clash, which they had to win to stay in contention for a semis spot, Akram noted that the two part-timers Khushdil Shah and Salman Ali Agha never looked threatening in the middle overs that exposed the loopholes in the squad picked for this tournament.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-pak-shreyas-iyer-not-happy-with-india-win-says-if-we-would-have-played-more-8752347" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy, IND vs PAK: Shreyas Iyer not happy with India's win, says 'if we would have played more...'</a></strong></p>
<p>Although Shah was among the wicket-takers, accounting for Shreyas Iyer (56), he and Agha conceded 53 runs in 9.3 overs (between them), putting pressure on the already underperforming seam attack that lacked zeal in the two contested matches thus far.</p>
<p>"Chairman Saab, please call the captain, selection committee, and coach and ask them what kind of selection they have made. Khushdil Shah and Salman Agha&mdash;did they ever look like taking wickets?"</p>
<p>&ldquo;I have been shouting for weeks that this squad is not good, but the chairman said they have assembled the best squad. Even the captain (Rizwan) is to blame. He is the leader of the ship, and if he doesn't know what kind of match-winner he needs, it's embarrassing,&rdquo; Akram said on a TV show following the India-Pakistan Champions Trophy match.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>&lsquo;I have never seen anything like that&rsquo;</h2>
<p>Throwing his support behind the Pakistani fans, who were left devastated after this performance by their team, Akram said he saw people leaving the venue after 15 overs in the chase, something he had never seen before. He continued saying that the fans are passionate, but it&rsquo;s frustrating for them to go through this again.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-shoaib-akhtar-rips-into-pakistans-tactics-after-crushing-loss-to-india-8751055" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Shoaib Akhtar rips into Pakistan&rsquo;s tactics after crushing loss to India</a></strong></p>
<p>"You should have seen the faces of Pakistan fans at the stadium. They left after 15 overs when Pakistan were bowling. I have never seen anything like that in my life. It's unfortunate. We as a nation are very passionate, but it's frustrating,&rdquo; Akram continued.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Akram praises Kohli</h3>
<p>Given how he played against Pakistan&mdash;perhaps his favourite opponent&mdash;Virat Kohli never looked like chasing good form. Although he had not hit a hundred across formats since November last year, which is considered a lean patch per his standards, his unbeaten 100 against Pakistan came at the right time for his team, which further saw him breaking several records.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"Hats off to him; he's a superstar, a modern-day great. I really hope he reaches 100 international centuries,&rdquo; Akram lauded King Kohli.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, with four points in two matches, India have virtually sealed their semis spot, with Pakistan almost out of the tournament.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: On Sunday (Feb 23), the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team beat their archrivals Pakistan by six wickets, virtually knocking the host out of the tournament.

Former Pakistan captain and perhaps their greatest-ever bowler, Wasim Akram, has lambasted his country’s ‘embarrassing’ performance against India in the recently concluded Champions Trophy match in Dubai. On Sunday (Feb 23), the Men in Blue beat their arch-rivals by six wickets, virtually knocking the hosts out of the tournament. Speaking on a TV show after the game, Akram pleaded to the PCB chairman (Mohsin Naqvi) to address the selection howler that led to this outcome in the home tournament. Tearing into the final XI for the marquee clash, which they had to win to stay in contention for a semis spot, Akram noted that the two part-timers Khushdil Shah and Salman Ali Agha never looked threatening in the middle overs that exposed the loopholes in the squad picked for this tournament. Also read | Champions Trophy, IND vs PAK: Shreyas Iyer not happy with India's win, says 'if we would have played more...' Although Shah was among the wicket-takers, accounting for Shreyas Iyer (56), he and Agha conceded 53 runs in 9.3 overs (between them), putting pressure on the already underperforming seam attack that lacked zeal in the two contested matches thus far. "Chairman Saab, please call the captain, selection committee, and coach and ask them what kind of selection they have made. Khushdil Shah and Salman Agha—did they ever look like taking wickets?" “I have been shouting for weeks that this squad is not good, but the chairman said they have assembled the best squad. Even the captain (Rizwan) is to blame. He is the leader of the ship, and if he doesn't know what kind of match-winner he needs, it's embarrassing,” Akram said on a TV show following the India-Pakistan Champions Trophy match. ‘I have never seen anything like that’ Throwing his support behind the Pakistani fans, who were left devastated after this performance by their team, Akram said he saw people leaving the venue after 15 overs in the chase, something he had never seen before. He continued saying that the fans are passionate, but it’s frustrating for them to go through this again. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Shoaib Akhtar rips into Pakistan’s tactics after crushing loss to India "You should have seen the faces of Pakistan fans at the stadium. They left after 15 overs when Pakistan were bowling. I have never seen anything like that in my life. It's unfortunate. We as a nation are very passionate, but it's frustrating,” Akram continued. Akram praises Kohli Given how he played against Pakistan—perhaps his favourite opponent—Virat Kohli never looked like chasing good form. Although he had not hit a hundred across formats since November last year, which is considered a lean patch per his standards, his unbeaten 100 against Pakistan came at the right time for his team, which further saw him breaking several records. "Hats off to him; he's a superstar, a modern-day great. I really hope he reaches 100 international centuries,” Akram lauded King Kohli. Meanwhile, with four points in two matches, India have virtually sealed their semis spot, with Pakistan almost out of the tournament. (With inputs from agencies)

Akram pleads to PCB chief to address selection howler after Pakistan’s ‘embarrassing’ loss to India

<p><span id="input-sentence~0" classification="HUMAN">India&rsquo;s decision to cancel the Indus Waters Treaty after the Pahalgam terror attack has opened a dangerous new chapter for South Asia. Pakistan, which depends heavily on the Indus River system, supplying around 90 per cent of its agricultural needs, has threatened retaliation. However,</span><span id="input-sentence~1" classification="HUMAN"> despite the rhetoric, Pakistan is in no real position to fight a war over water. Let's understand why -&nbsp;<br><br>Signed in 1960 with World Bank mediation, the Indus Waters Treaty divided six rivers between India and Pakistan.</span><span id="aidr-input-non-human-chunk"></span><span id="input-sentence~2" classification="AI"> India received control over the eastern rivers &mdash; Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej &mdash; while Pakistan was granted rights to the western rivers &mdash; Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab. The western rivers constitute nearly 80 per cent of the total annual flow of the Indus Basin, amounting to approximately 135 million acre-feet of water each year &mdash; making them critical for Pakistan&rsquo;s agriculture, drinking water, and power generation.</span><span id="input-sentence~3" classification="HUMAN"> This treaty has been the backbone of Pakistan&rsquo;s agricultural economy and urban survival for over six decades.<br></span></p>
<h2><strong><span classification="HUMAN">Weaponisation of Water</span></strong></h2>
<p><span id="input-sentence~3" classification="HUMAN">Now, with the treaty suspended, India has the power to build dams, divert flows, or even restrict water headed towards Pakistan. The consequences for Pakistan would be swift and severe.</span><span id="input-sentence~4" classification="AI"> Drinking water shortages could emerge within 2&ndash;3 weeks. Irrigation systems, crucial for sustaining Pakistan&rsquo;s agriculture, would begin to break down shortly after. Punjab, which produces over 75 per cent of Pakistan&rsquo;s wheat and 90 per cent of its rice, could see its crop output collapse &mdash; a devastating blow to both the economy and food security.</span><span id="input-sentence~5" classification="AI"><br><br>The threat also extends to electricity supply of Pakistan. Hydroelectric plants such as Mangla (with a capacity of 1,000 MW) and Tarbela (one of the world's largest earth-filled dams, producing around 4,888 MW) rely entirely on the western rivers. In the absence of steady water flow, Pakistan would face blackouts, crippling industries that contribute nearly 19 per cent to its GDP and affecting daily civilian life.</span><span id="input-sentence~6" classification="AI"> Amidst a conflict, the collapse of basic services could quickly trigger unrest among Pakistan&rsquo;s 241 million citizens, leading to riots and political instability.<br><br>From a strategic perspective, India&rsquo;s control over water gives it a massive advantage without direct military engagement.</span><span id="input-sentence~7" classification="AI"> Pakistan&rsquo;s armed forces, numbering around 650,000 active personnel, require stable logistical support, including water for troops and bases. Sustaining a prolonged military operation would become increasingly difficult for Pakistan, compromising field operations, equipment movement, and troop welfare.</span></p>
<p><span classification="AI">More worryingly for Pakistan, this crisis accelerates an already grim timeline. Even before the current standoff, the United Nations had warned that Pakistan could become a water-scarce country by 2025, with per capita water availability expected to fall below 1,000 cubic meters &mdash; the threshold defining "water scarcity." Without access to the Indus system, that timeline is no longer theoretical.</span></p>
<p><span id="input-sentence~7" classification="AI">Meanwhile, Pakistan&rsquo;s economy is already under enormous strain. </span><span id="input-sentence~8" classification="HUMAN">Its foreign reserves have fallen to just around $8 billion &mdash; barely enough to cover less than two months of imports. Inflation is soaring above 25 per cent and the country remains heavily reliant on IMF bailouts and foreign loans. Entering a war under such conditions would almost certainly push the country toward economic collapse.</span><span id="input-sentence~9" classification="AI"><br><br>Internationally, Islamabad finds itself increasingly isolated. Even China, Pakistan&rsquo;s largest creditor with investments worth over $65 billion under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), is unlikely to intervene militarily over river waters. Western countries, viewing India as a growing $3.7 trillion economy and an important democratic partner in the Indo-Pacific, are increasingly siding with New Delhi.</span><span id="input-sentence~10" classification="AI"></span></p>
<p data-start="4271" data-end="4548" class="">Losing access to the Indus waters would strike at the very foundations of Pakistan&rsquo;s economy, governance, and society. While Pakistan may threaten retaliation, the brutal truth is hard to escape: it cannot afford a war over water &mdash; not today, and not in the foreseeable future.</p>
<p data-start="4271" data-end="4548" class=""><em>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</em></p>

Drinking water shortages could emerge within 2–3 weeks. Irrigation systems, crucial for sustaining Pakistan’s agriculture, would begin to break down shortly after. Punjab, which produces over 75 per cent of Pakistan’s wheat and 90 per cent of its rice, could see its crop output collapse.

India’s decision to cancel the Indus Waters Treaty after the Pahalgam terror attack has opened a dangerous new chapter for South Asia. Pakistan, which depends heavily on the Indus River system, supplying around 90 per cent of its agricultural needs, has threatened retaliation. However, despite the rhetoric, Pakistan is in no real position to fight a war over water. Let's understand why - Signed in 1960 with World Bank mediation, the Indus Waters Treaty divided six rivers between India and Pakistan. India received control over the eastern rivers — Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej — while Pakistan was granted rights to the western rivers — Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab. The western rivers constitute nearly 80 per cent of the total annual flow of the Indus Basin, amounting to approximately 135 million acre-feet of water each year — making them critical for Pakistan’s agriculture, drinking water, and power generation. This treaty has been the backbone of Pakistan’s agricultural economy and urban survival for over six decades. Weaponisation of Water Now, with the treaty suspended, India has the power to build dams, divert flows, or even restrict water headed towards Pakistan. The consequences for Pakistan would be swift and severe. Drinking water shortages could emerge within 2–3 weeks. Irrigation systems, crucial for sustaining Pakistan’s agriculture, would begin to break down shortly after. Punjab, which produces over 75 per cent of Pakistan’s wheat and 90 per cent of its rice, could see its crop output collapse — a devastating blow to both the economy and food security. The threat also extends to electricity supply of Pakistan. Hydroelectric plants such as Mangla (with a capacity of 1,000 MW) and Tarbela (one of the world's largest earth-filled dams, producing around 4,888 MW) rely entirely on the western rivers. In the absence of steady water flow, Pakistan would face blackouts, crippling industries that contribute nearly 19 per cent to its GDP and affecting daily civilian life. Amidst a conflict, the collapse of basic services could quickly trigger unrest among Pakistan’s 241 million citizens, leading to riots and political instability. From a strategic perspective, India’s control over water gives it a massive advantage without direct military engagement. Pakistan’s armed forces, numbering around 650,000 active personnel, require stable logistical support, including water for troops and bases. Sustaining a prolonged military operation would become increasingly difficult for Pakistan, compromising field operations, equipment movement, and troop welfare. More worryingly for Pakistan, this crisis accelerates an already grim timeline. Even before the current standoff, the United Nations had warned that Pakistan could become a water-scarce country by 2025, with per capita water availability expected to fall below 1,000 cubic meters — the threshold defining "water scarcity." Without access to the Indus system, that timeline is no longer theoretical. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s economy is already under enormous strain. Its foreign reserves have fallen to just around $8 billion — barely enough to cover less than two months of imports. Inflation is soaring above 25 per cent and the country remains heavily reliant on IMF bailouts and foreign loans. Entering a war under such conditions would almost certainly push the country toward economic collapse. Internationally, Islamabad finds itself increasingly isolated. Even China, Pakistan’s largest creditor with investments worth over $65 billion under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), is unlikely to intervene militarily over river waters. Western countries, viewing India as a growing $3.7 trillion economy and an important democratic partner in the Indo-Pacific, are increasingly siding with New Delhi. Losing access to the Indus waters would strike at the very foundations of Pakistan’s economy, governance, and society. While Pakistan may threaten retaliation, the brutal truth is hard to escape: it cannot afford a war over water — not today, and not in the foreseeable future. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Water, not guns, will be India's biggest weapon against Pakistan in the next war! Here's why

Both forces use advanced weaponry like the SIG Sauer rifles, Glock pistols, and MP5 submachine guns. MARCOS also use specialised naval equipment, while NSG are equipped with thermal imaging scopes, breaching tools, and armoured vehicles like the 'Sherpa'.

Inside India’s deadliest forces: Decoding the fearsome reputation of MARCOS and NSG commandos

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice president Rajeev Shukla has shut down doors for any future bilateral series between India and Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attacks on Tuesday (April 22). At least 26 people were killed including foreigners during an open fire attack by terrorists in the Pahalgam town of Anantnag district in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The three attackers identified by security forces are affiliated with the terror organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba, aided by Pakistan.</p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Rajeev Shukla shuts door for India-Pakistan series</strong></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">&ldquo;We are with the victims and we condemn it. Whatever our government will say, we will do. We don&rsquo;t play with Pakistan in bilateral series because of the government's stand. And we will not play with Pakistan in bilaterals going forward. But when it comes to ICC event we play due to ICC engagement. ICC is also aware whatever is happening they will to it,&rdquo; Shukla told Sports Tak.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">India-Pakistan cricket relationship has been at an all-time low in recent years, with the Men in Blue denying to travel to the terror-prone nation during the 2023 Asia Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy. The two nations have not met in a bilateral series since 2013, highlighting the poor relationship between the nations.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">However, things have been looking positive in recent times as the International Cricket Committee (ICC) making efforts to bring them together. That possibility is now shut down after Tuesday&rsquo;s attack as BCCI has taken a clear stand to not face Pakistan in any pre-arranged series.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-addresses-first-public-rally-after-pahalgam-terror-attack-8996493" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'India's spirit not broken': PM Modi addresses 1st public rally after Pahalgam terror attack</a></strong></p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span>No&nbsp;India vs Pakistan matches</span></strong></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">On the flip side, Shukla has denied a complete boycott of Pakistan as India kept doors open for Indi&rsquo;s meeting with Pakistan in ICC tournaments. He underlined the commitments of the ICC, which makes nations mandatory to play their respective opponents or forfeit the tie.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The next possible meeting between India and Pakistan will take place at this September&rsquo;s Asia Cup. Since ICC commitments are not bound to continental tournaments, it will be interesting to see whether the BCCI boycotts Asia Cup matches as well.</p>

India News | Cricket | Sports: At least 26 people were killed including foreigners during an open fire attack by terrorists in the Pahalgam town of Anantnag district.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice president Rajeev Shukla has shut down doors for any future bilateral series between India and Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attacks on Tuesday (April 22). At least 26 people were killed including foreigners during an open fire attack by terrorists in the Pahalgam town of Anantnag district in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The three attackers identified by security forces are affiliated with the terror organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba, aided by Pakistan. Rajeev Shukla shuts door for India-Pakistan series “We are with the victims and we condemn it. Whatever our government will say, we will do. We don’t play with Pakistan in bilateral series because of the government's stand. And we will not play with Pakistan in bilaterals going forward. But when it comes to ICC event we play due to ICC engagement. ICC is also aware whatever is happening they will to it,” Shukla told Sports Tak. India-Pakistan cricket relationship has been at an all-time low in recent years, with the Men in Blue denying to travel to the terror-prone nation during the 2023 Asia Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy. The two nations have not met in a bilateral series since 2013, highlighting the poor relationship between the nations. However, things have been looking positive in recent times as the International Cricket Committee (ICC) making efforts to bring them together. That possibility is now shut down after Tuesday’s attack as BCCI has taken a clear stand to not face Pakistan in any pre-arranged series. ALSO READ | 'India's spirit not broken': PM Modi addresses 1st public rally after Pahalgam terror attack No India vs Pakistan matches On the flip side, Shukla has denied a complete boycott of Pakistan as India kept doors open for Indi’s meeting with Pakistan in ICC tournaments. He underlined the commitments of the ICC, which makes nations mandatory to play their respective opponents or forfeit the tie. The next possible meeting between India and Pakistan will take place at this September’s Asia Cup. Since ICC commitments are not bound to continental tournaments, it will be interesting to see whether the BCCI boycotts Asia Cup matches as well.

Pahalgam terror attack: BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla shuts door for India-Pakistan series, says 'we will not play...'

<p>Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed realised his childhood dream of bowling to Virat Kohli during the India vs Pakistan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a> tie in Dubai late last month. Playing his first ICC tournament, Abrar was the best of all Pakistani bowlers used against India, going for just 28 in his ten overs, including picking one wicket of the vice-captain Shubman Gill.</p>
<p>Though Kohli enjoyed scoring against Pakistan, perhaps his favourite opponent across white-ball formats, he failed to find ways to do it against the leg-spinner, who kept the Indian batters quiet during the chase.</p>
<p>Against Pakistan, Kohli completed his 51st ODI hundred, helping <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/at-36-kohlis-record-shattering-century-guides-india-to-famous-victory-against-pakistan-8750296" rel="dofollow">India chase the target with five wickets remaining</a>. Even midway through the match, Kohli acknowledged Abrar&rsquo;s bowling just after he finished his spell by approaching and congratulating him.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/watch-virat-kohli-appreciates-pakistan-spinner-abrar-ahmed-for-tight-spell-in-dubai-showdown-champions-trophy-8752581" rel="dofollow">Watch - Kohli appreciates Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed for tight spell in Dubai showdown</a></strong></p>
<p>Both teams, however, suffered contrasting fates during the tournament. While the host Pakistan got knocked out after losing to India (just six days into the event), India reached the grand finale scheduled against New Zealand this Sunday in Dubai.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meanwhile, more than a week since that game, Abrar opened up about bowling to Kohli in the high-octane tie, praising the Indian batting great for his modesty on the field.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;My childhood dream of bowling to Kohli has come true in Dubai. It was a great challenge, and I took the liberty of teasing him, asking him to hit me a six, but he never got angry. Kohli is a great batter, we all know that. But he is a great human being too,&rdquo; Abrar said in a chat with Telecom Asia Sport, as quoted by Hindustan Times.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>How Kohli&rsquo;s appreciation won his heart</h2>
<p>Talking about that particular incident, Abrar said Kohli praising him won his heart.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-champions-trophy-final-why-dubai-hosting-india-games-making-everyone-hate-watching-indian-cricket-8827057" rel="dofollow">IND vs NZ Champions Trophy Final | Why are fans 'hate-watching' Indian cricket?</a></strong></p>
<p>&ldquo;He said, &lsquo;well bowled&rsquo; after the match, and that made my day,&rdquo; the 26-year-old added. &ldquo;I have grown up idolising Kohli and used to tell Under-19 players that one day I will bowl to him.&rdquo;</p>
<h3>Gill&rsquo;s wicket celebration</h3>
<p>Of all the things that made headlines during the India vs Pakistan game, Abrar&rsquo;s over-the-top celebration after dismissing Gill made the most noise. Abrar said it&rsquo;s his style of celebrating the wicket and that he finds nothing wrong in this.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Watch Video -</h3>
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<p>&ldquo;That's my style, and I see nothing wrong with it. No official told me that I did anything wrong, but if it hurt anyone, I am sorry for that. It was not my intention to hurt anyone,&rdquo; the spinner concluded.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Though Kohli scored his 51st ODI hundred against Pakistan in Dubai, helping India win the game, he failed to find ways to score runs against the leg-spinner.

Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed realised his childhood dream of bowling to Virat Kohli during the India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy 2025 tie in Dubai late last month. Playing his first ICC tournament, Abrar was the best of all Pakistani bowlers used against India, going for just 28 in his ten overs, including picking one wicket of the vice-captain Shubman Gill. Though Kohli enjoyed scoring against Pakistan, perhaps his favourite opponent across white-ball formats, he failed to find ways to do it against the leg-spinner, who kept the Indian batters quiet during the chase. Against Pakistan, Kohli completed his 51st ODI hundred, helping India chase the target with five wickets remaining. Even midway through the match, Kohli acknowledged Abrar’s bowling just after he finished his spell by approaching and congratulating him. Also read | Watch - Kohli appreciates Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed for tight spell in Dubai showdown Both teams, however, suffered contrasting fates during the tournament. While the host Pakistan got knocked out after losing to India (just six days into the event), India reached the grand finale scheduled against New Zealand this Sunday in Dubai. Meanwhile, more than a week since that game, Abrar opened up about bowling to Kohli in the high-octane tie, praising the Indian batting great for his modesty on the field. “My childhood dream of bowling to Kohli has come true in Dubai. It was a great challenge, and I took the liberty of teasing him, asking him to hit me a six, but he never got angry. Kohli is a great batter, we all know that. But he is a great human being too,” Abrar said in a chat with Telecom Asia Sport, as quoted by Hindustan Times. How Kohli’s appreciation won his heart Talking about that particular incident, Abrar said Kohli praising him won his heart. Also read | IND vs NZ Champions Trophy Final | Why are fans 'hate-watching' Indian cricket? “He said, ‘well bowled’ after the match, and that made my day,” the 26-year-old added. “I have grown up idolising Kohli and used to tell Under-19 players that one day I will bowl to him.” Gill’s wicket celebration Of all the things that made headlines during the India vs Pakistan game, Abrar’s over-the-top celebration after dismissing Gill made the most noise. Abrar said it’s his style of celebrating the wicket and that he finds nothing wrong in this. Watch Video - View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) “That's my style, and I see nothing wrong with it. No official told me that I did anything wrong, but if it hurt anyone, I am sorry for that. It was not my intention to hurt anyone,” the spinner concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

How Kohli won Abrar Ahmed's heart after thrashing Pakistan in Champions Trophy

<p>India and Pakistan are the two Asian cricketing giants, playing each other in just ICC-bound tournaments or Asia Cup. While tense political relations between both countries have restricted them from indulging in any bilateral cricket whatsoever, talks of its resumption have been underway. Speaking on the same lines, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sunil-gavaskar" rel="dofollow">Sunil Gavaskar</a> said no bilateral cricket will happen unless there is peace at the border.</p>
<p>India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in late 2012, when Pakistan toured India and won the ODIs (2-1). Since then, the two teams have met in just ICC events, including the ODI World Cups, T20 World Cups and Champions Trophy, with countless fans worldwide enjoying each contest.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/playing-in-dubai-definitely-an-advantage-for-india-in-champions-trophy-rassie-van-der-dussen-8763938" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: Van der Dussen seconds India's 'schedule advantage' claim as semis loom</a></strong></p>
<p>Both sides last met during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> group stage game in Dubai, where India equalled Pakistan&rsquo;s head-to-head win tally (3-3) in this competition with a six-wicket victory over the Men in Green.</p>
<p>"Frankly, by having peace at the borders. It&rsquo;s very simple. If there&rsquo;s peace at the borders, then I think both governments will certainly say, 'Look, okay, we&rsquo;ve had no incidents, nothing at all. So, let&rsquo;s at least start with talking,&rsquo;" Gavaskar said while speaking on the cricket show Dressing Room, as quoted by Times of India (TOI).</p>
<p>India last toured Pakistan almost two decades ago for a bilateral tour, with the 2008 Asia Cup being the last time they played in the country altogether. Even for the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025, BCCI denied sending its team to Pakistan for the eight-team tournament.</p>
<p>After formally informing ICC about its decision, the BCCI persuaded the apex body to convince the host board (PCB) to agree to the hybrid model, which they denied (at first) but later accepted. However, they put on some conditions, which their counterpart (the BCCI) agreed to.</p>
<h2>What can lead to resumption?</h2>
<p>Gavaskar feels for any cricket between just the two to get underway, maintaining peace outside of the cricket ground is paramount, and unless that happens, nothing concrete will take place despite diplomatic talks.</p>
<p>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rashid-latif-explains-what-forced-younis-khan-to-choose-afghanistan-over-pakistan-for-champions-trophy-stint-8764498" rel="dofollow">Rashid Latif explains what forced Younis Khan to choose Afghanistan over Pakistan</a></p>
<p>"I&rsquo;m pretty certain there will be some back-channel connections going on. But you want to see what&rsquo;s happening both on the ground and off the ground because of the fact that there are incursions we hear about. That&rsquo;s the reason why the Indian government is saying, 'Look, maybe until all that stops, we should not even look at having or talking about anything,&rsquo;" Gavaskar explained.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, India and Pakistan share contrasting fates in the Champions Trophy, with the hosts knocked out of the tournament just six days into it and India, placed in the same group, having qualified for the semis.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Both sides last met during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 group stage game in Dubai, where India beat Pakistan by six wickets, equalling their CT win tally.

India and Pakistan are the two Asian cricketing giants, playing each other in just ICC-bound tournaments or Asia Cup. While tense political relations between both countries have restricted them from indulging in any bilateral cricket whatsoever, talks of its resumption have been underway. Speaking on the same lines, Sunil Gavaskar said no bilateral cricket will happen unless there is peace at the border. India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in late 2012, when Pakistan toured India and won the ODIs (2-1). Since then, the two teams have met in just ICC events, including the ODI World Cups, T20 World Cups and Champions Trophy, with countless fans worldwide enjoying each contest. Also read | Champions Trophy: Van der Dussen seconds India's 'schedule advantage' claim as semis loom Both sides last met during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 group stage game in Dubai, where India equalled Pakistan’s head-to-head win tally (3-3) in this competition with a six-wicket victory over the Men in Green. "Frankly, by having peace at the borders. It’s very simple. If there’s peace at the borders, then I think both governments will certainly say, 'Look, okay, we’ve had no incidents, nothing at all. So, let’s at least start with talking,’" Gavaskar said while speaking on the cricket show Dressing Room, as quoted by Times of India (TOI). India last toured Pakistan almost two decades ago for a bilateral tour, with the 2008 Asia Cup being the last time they played in the country altogether. Even for the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025, BCCI denied sending its team to Pakistan for the eight-team tournament. After formally informing ICC about its decision, the BCCI persuaded the apex body to convince the host board (PCB) to agree to the hybrid model, which they denied (at first) but later accepted. However, they put on some conditions, which their counterpart (the BCCI) agreed to. What can lead to resumption? Gavaskar feels for any cricket between just the two to get underway, maintaining peace outside of the cricket ground is paramount, and unless that happens, nothing concrete will take place despite diplomatic talks. Also read | Rashid Latif explains what forced Younis Khan to choose Afghanistan over Pakistan "I’m pretty certain there will be some back-channel connections going on. But you want to see what’s happening both on the ground and off the ground because of the fact that there are incursions we hear about. That’s the reason why the Indian government is saying, 'Look, maybe until all that stops, we should not even look at having or talking about anything,’" Gavaskar explained. Meanwhile, India and Pakistan share contrasting fates in the Champions Trophy, with the hosts knocked out of the tournament just six days into it and India, placed in the same group, having qualified for the semis. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Peace at border’ first step to resumption of India-Pakistan bilateral cricket: Gavaskar

<p>After half of the group-stage matches in the Champions Trophy, we have two semi-finalists, and both are from Group A, i.e., India and New Zealand. Meanwhile, hosts and defending champion Pakistan are out of the tournament just one week into it.</p>
<p>On the other side, Group B is still wide open with all four teams in the hunt for the last two spots in the semi-finals. The weather in Rawalpindi, however, is threatening the match between South Africa and Australia. Both teams are at two points each after winning the opening fixture, and a washout will award them one point each from the game.</p>
<h2><strong>Here's the updated Champions Trophy Points Table</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Group A: India, New Zealand, Pakistan and Bangladesh</strong></p>
<figure class="tinymce-table-div">
<figure class="tinymce-table-div">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 824px; height: 106px; border-width: 1px;" class="center">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 94.2812px;"><strong>Team Name</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 120.062px;"><strong>Matches Played</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 38.0781px;"><strong>Wins</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 37.3438px;"><strong>Loss</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 48.8906px;"><strong>Points</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 96.0156px;"><strong>Net Run-rate</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 94.2812px;">New Zealand</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 120.062px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 38.0781px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 37.3438px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 48.8906px;">4</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 96.0156px;">+0.863</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 94.2812px;">India</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 120.062px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 38.0781px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 37.3438px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 48.8906px;">4</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 96.0156px;">+0.647</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 94.2812px;">Bangladesh</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 120.062px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 38.0781px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 37.3438px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 48.8906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 96.0156px;">-0.443</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 94.2812px;">Pakistan</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 120.062px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 38.0781px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 37.3438px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 48.8906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 96.0156px;">-1.087</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 94.2812px;"></td>
<td style="width: 120.062px;"></td>
<td style="width: 38.0781px;"></td>
<td style="width: 37.3438px;"></td>
<td style="width: 48.8906px;"></td>
<td style="width: 96.0156px;"></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
</figure>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>After losing two consecutive matches, Pakistan are at the bottom of the Group A points table. They needed Bangladesh and India to beat New Zealand as well as beat Bangladesh themselves to have a shot at making it to the semis of the tournament.</p>
<p>Bangladesh's loss to New Zealand on Feb 24, however, means that both Pakistan and Bangladesh are out of the tournament. Both teams play each other in their last group stage match on Feb 27&mdash;a dead rubber. India and New Zealand, meanwhile, will play on Mar 2, and the winner will top Group A.</p>
<p><strong>Group B: Australia, England, Afghanistan and South Africa</strong></p>
<figure class="tinymce-table-div">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 805px; height: 153px;"><colgroup><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Team Name</strong></td>
<td><strong>Matches Played</strong></td>
<td><strong>Wins</strong></td>
<td><strong>Loss</strong></td>
<td><strong>Points</strong></td>
<td><strong>Net Run-rate</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>South Africa</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>+2.140</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Australia</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>+0.475</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>England</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>-0.475</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Afghanistan</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>-2.140</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<p>South Africa beat Afghanistan by a mammoth 107 runs in the first match of Group B to earn two points and go on top of the table. The Proteas not only gained two points but also a net run-rate of +2.140, while Afghanistan are at -2.140 on the points table.</p>
<p>In the match between England and Australia, the Kangaroos became victorious by five wickets, earning two points as well as a net run-rate of +0.475. England, on the other hand, received a -0.475 net run rate despite posting the highest 1st innings total in the Champions Trophy history.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

Champions Trophy: After half of the group-stage matches in the ICC tournament, we have two semi-finalists and both are from Group A, ie India and New Zealand. Cricket Sports

After half of the group-stage matches in the Champions Trophy, we have two semi-finalists, and both are from Group A, i.e., India and New Zealand. Meanwhile, hosts and defending champion Pakistan are out of the tournament just one week into it. On the other side, Group B is still wide open with all four teams in the hunt for the last two spots in the semi-finals. The weather in Rawalpindi, however, is threatening the match between South Africa and Australia. Both teams are at two points each after winning the opening fixture, and a washout will award them one point each from the game. Here's the updated Champions Trophy Points Table Group A: India, New Zealand, Pakistan and Bangladesh Team Name Matches Played Wins Loss Points Net Run-rate New Zealand 2 2 0 4 +0.863 India 2 2 0 4 +0.647 Bangladesh 2 0 2 0 -0.443 Pakistan 2 0 2 0 -1.087 After losing two consecutive matches, Pakistan are at the bottom of the Group A points table. They needed Bangladesh and India to beat New Zealand as well as beat Bangladesh themselves to have a shot at making it to the semis of the tournament. Bangladesh's loss to New Zealand on Feb 24, however, means that both Pakistan and Bangladesh are out of the tournament. Both teams play each other in their last group stage match on Feb 27—a dead rubber. India and New Zealand, meanwhile, will play on Mar 2, and the winner will top Group A. Group B: Australia, England, Afghanistan and South Africa Team Name Matches Played Wins Loss Points Net Run-rate South Africa 1 1 0 2 +2.140 Australia 1 1 0 2 +0.475 England 1 0 1 0 -0.475 Afghanistan 1 0 1 0 -2.140 South Africa beat Afghanistan by a mammoth 107 runs in the first match of Group B to earn two points and go on top of the table. The Proteas not only gained two points but also a net run-rate of +2.140, while Afghanistan are at -2.140 on the points table. In the match between England and Australia, the Kangaroos became victorious by five wickets, earning two points as well as a net run-rate of +0.475. England, on the other hand, received a -0.475 net run rate despite posting the highest 1st innings total in the Champions Trophy history.

Champions Trophy: India, New Zealand in semis, Pakistan, Bangladesh out - updated points table

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/babar-azam" rel="dofollow">Babar Azam</a> is Pakistan&rsquo;s best batter across formats, his preferred one being the One-Dayers, where his record speaks for itself; however, even those are not enough to put him in the same breath as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a>, a batting genius. Though social media reels and TikTok videos might have magnified his persona over the years, with countless fans even comparing him to Kohli, the former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has bashed this delusion, giving them all a reality check.</p>
<p>Babar has scaled colossal heights in each format, having scored plenty of hundreds in those, but per Hafeez, also formerly known as &lsquo;Professor&rsquo; among his teammates, he hasn&rsquo;t played any match-winning inning against India since his debut, something he feels has restricted him from being called a &lsquo;batting great&rsquo;.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wasim-akram-pleads-to-pcb-chief-to-address-selection-howler-after-pakistans-embarrassing-show-against-india-in-champions-trophy-8752395" rel="dofollow">Akram pleads to PCB chief to address selection howler after Pakistan&rsquo;s &lsquo;embarrassing&rsquo; loss to India</a></strong></p>
<p>Hafeez noted that one doesn't become a king, a cricketing term the fans have overly used for the past several years, indicating a player&rsquo;s achievements by employing PR (public relations), and instead on-field performances decide who is the best player around.</p>
<p>While Babar got out early inside the Powerplay against India, scoring 23 runs, his counterpart Virat Kohli hit a match-winning hundred (100*) while chasing, helping India win the marquee <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-pak-live-score-today-cricket-match-icc-champions-trophy-2025-full-scorecard-dubai-international-stadium-rohit-sharma-vs-mohammad-rizwan-23-feb-2025-8748835" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy clash by six wickets</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>'Virat likes performing on big stage'</h2>
<p>Praising the Indian veteran for his heroics, Hafeez said Virat thrives performing on the bigger stages, claiming what&rsquo;s mightier than doing it against Pakistan.</p>
<p>"Virat is a high-stage performer. He looks out for big occasions and performs. Whenever India plays against Pakistan, you get a chance to star in those matches. Shoaib Malik bowled well against India, where he became a star; Shahid Afridi became a star when he hit sixes against India," Hafeez said after the India-Pakistan Champions Trophy game.</p>
<p>"Virat Kohli keeps waiting for those occasions. He waits to cash in on those opportunities. He keeps a positive mindset; he thinks that 'I will win the match for India. I will not only play, but I will win the match for my country.' And that's why he is the greatest batter in the world," Hafeez added.</p>
<h2>Reality check</h2>
<p>Bringing everyone back to earth with his assessment of the comparison between Virat and Babar, Hafeez noted,&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;In reality, if someone deserves to be called King, it is Virat Kohli, not Babar Azam. Look at his performance. He has performed all across the world, not become a king by employing PR. Call out those spokespersons, show them the mirror.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: While Babar got out early inside the Powerplay against India, scoring 23 runs, his counterpart Virat Kohli hit a match-winning hundred (100*) during the chase.

Babar Azam is Pakistan’s best batter across formats, his preferred one being the One-Dayers, where his record speaks for itself; however, even those are not enough to put him in the same breath as Virat Kohli, a batting genius. Though social media reels and TikTok videos might have magnified his persona over the years, with countless fans even comparing him to Kohli, the former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has bashed this delusion, giving them all a reality check. Babar has scaled colossal heights in each format, having scored plenty of hundreds in those, but per Hafeez, also formerly known as ‘Professor’ among his teammates, he hasn’t played any match-winning inning against India since his debut, something he feels has restricted him from being called a ‘batting great’. Also read | Akram pleads to PCB chief to address selection howler after Pakistan’s ‘embarrassing’ loss to India Hafeez noted that one doesn't become a king, a cricketing term the fans have overly used for the past several years, indicating a player’s achievements by employing PR (public relations), and instead on-field performances decide who is the best player around. While Babar got out early inside the Powerplay against India, scoring 23 runs, his counterpart Virat Kohli hit a match-winning hundred (100*) while chasing, helping India win the marquee Champions Trophy clash by six wickets. 'Virat likes performing on big stage' Praising the Indian veteran for his heroics, Hafeez said Virat thrives performing on the bigger stages, claiming what’s mightier than doing it against Pakistan. "Virat is a high-stage performer. He looks out for big occasions and performs. Whenever India plays against Pakistan, you get a chance to star in those matches. Shoaib Malik bowled well against India, where he became a star; Shahid Afridi became a star when he hit sixes against India," Hafeez said after the India-Pakistan Champions Trophy game. "Virat Kohli keeps waiting for those occasions. He waits to cash in on those opportunities. He keeps a positive mindset; he thinks that 'I will win the match for India. I will not only play, but I will win the match for my country.' And that's why he is the greatest batter in the world," Hafeez added. Reality check Bringing everyone back to earth with his assessment of the comparison between Virat and Babar, Hafeez noted, “In reality, if someone deserves to be called King, it is Virat Kohli, not Babar Azam. Look at his performance. He has performed all across the world, not become a king by employing PR. Call out those spokespersons, show them the mirror.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘Performances make you a King, not PR’ – Hafeez tears into Babar Azam’s delusional social media hype

<p>Class recognises class!</p>
<p>Ace Indian batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-pak-live-score-today-cricket-match-icc-champions-trophy-2025-full-scorecard-dubai-international-stadium-rohit-sharma-vs-mohammad-rizwan-23-feb-2025-8748835" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli won a billion hearts worldwide for his match-winning hundred against Pakistan</a> in Dubai on Sunday, but what stood out was his sportsman spirit during the chase. On a day when every Pakistani bowler leaked runs, with at least four of the six used going for over five runs per over, their spinner Abrar Ahmed impressed everyone, including Kohli, who, after the completion of his 10th over, congratulated Abrar for a tight spell.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wasim-akram-pleads-to-pcb-chief-to-address-selection-howler-after-pakistans-embarrassing-show-against-india-in-champions-trophy-8752395" rel="dofollow">Akram pleads to PCB chief to address selection howler after Pakistan&rsquo;s &lsquo;embarrassing&rsquo; loss to India</a></strong></p>
<p>The leg-spinner was the only one who threatened India (a bit) during the chase, conceding just 28 runs for one wicket in 10 overs&mdash;bowling the most economical spell across both camps. Though his counterpart Kuldeep Yadav had better numbers in the first innings, having picked three wickets, Abrar&rsquo;s spell kept the Indian batters, mainly Kohli, quiet throughout.</p>
<p>The ICC uploaded a video on their social media handles of Virat acknowledging Abrar for his fantastic spell against India in Dubai.</p>
<h3>Watch &ndash;</h3>
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<h2>Kohli&rsquo;s master class and Abrar&rsquo;s memorable outing</h2>
<p>Virat Kohli practised for around 90 minutes more than the remaining Indian batters on the eve of the game, grinding hard to find his Midas touch; come D-day, he did.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Coming onto bat inside the Powerplay following the fall of Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s wicket, Kohli, as usual, took his time to settle in before he unleashed himself on Pakistan and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/champions-trophy-india-wins-by-6-wickets-virat-kohli-scores-century-8750221" rel="dofollow">won the match for India</a>.</p>
<p>Virat broke a few records en route to his maiden Champions Trophy ton, becoming the quickest to 14,000 ODI runs before notching up his 51st ODI ton - most by any batter in history. His calculated innings saw India finish on the winning side, but what kept troubling him was Abrar&rsquo;s tight line and length.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-india-batter-virat-kohli-admits-cover-drive-kind-of-been-my-weakness-8752118" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: India batter Virat Kohli admits cover drive 'kind of been my weakness'</a></strong></p>
<p>The mystery spinner even took Shubman Gill&rsquo;s wicket (clean bowled on 46), giving him a sendoff afterwards. Though that might have irked the Indian fans, who even took to social media to show resentment towards it, none could overlook Abrar&rsquo;s contribution during the game, which even impressed Kohli.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, India&rsquo;s win against Pakistan has put them on the doorstep of a semis spot, but the hosts need several miracles to advance to the next round.&nbsp;</p>
<p>India face New Zealand this coming Sunday (Mar 2) in Dubai, while Pakistan will host Bangladesh in their last league game on Thursday (Feb 27).&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: On a day when every Pakistani bowler leaked runs, spinner Abrar Ahmed impressed everyone, including Kohli, who congratulated Abrar for a tight spell.

Class recognises class! Ace Indian batter Virat Kohli won a billion hearts worldwide for his match-winning hundred against Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday, but what stood out was his sportsman spirit during the chase. On a day when every Pakistani bowler leaked runs, with at least four of the six used going for over five runs per over, their spinner Abrar Ahmed impressed everyone, including Kohli, who, after the completion of his 10th over, congratulated Abrar for a tight spell. Also read | Akram pleads to PCB chief to address selection howler after Pakistan’s ‘embarrassing’ loss to India The leg-spinner was the only one who threatened India (a bit) during the chase, conceding just 28 runs for one wicket in 10 overs—bowling the most economical spell across both camps. Though his counterpart Kuldeep Yadav had better numbers in the first innings, having picked three wickets, Abrar’s spell kept the Indian batters, mainly Kohli, quiet throughout. The ICC uploaded a video on their social media handles of Virat acknowledging Abrar for his fantastic spell against India in Dubai. Watch – View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) Kohli’s master class and Abrar’s memorable outing Virat Kohli practised for around 90 minutes more than the remaining Indian batters on the eve of the game, grinding hard to find his Midas touch; come D-day, he did. Coming onto bat inside the Powerplay following the fall of Rohit Sharma’s wicket, Kohli, as usual, took his time to settle in before he unleashed himself on Pakistan and won the match for India. Virat broke a few records en route to his maiden Champions Trophy ton, becoming the quickest to 14,000 ODI runs before notching up his 51st ODI ton - most by any batter in history. His calculated innings saw India finish on the winning side, but what kept troubling him was Abrar’s tight line and length. Also read | Champions Trophy: India batter Virat Kohli admits cover drive 'kind of been my weakness' The mystery spinner even took Shubman Gill’s wicket (clean bowled on 46), giving him a sendoff afterwards. Though that might have irked the Indian fans, who even took to social media to show resentment towards it, none could overlook Abrar’s contribution during the game, which even impressed Kohli. Meanwhile, India’s win against Pakistan has put them on the doorstep of a semis spot, but the hosts need several miracles to advance to the next round. India face New Zealand this coming Sunday (Mar 2) in Dubai, while Pakistan will host Bangladesh in their last league game on Thursday (Feb 27). (With inputs from agencies)

Watch - Kohli appreciates Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed for tight spell in Dubai showdown

<p>Nearly half of the group-stage matches in the Champions Trophy are already done with host Pakistan becoming the first team who are all but out of the tournament. After their loss against India on Feb 23 in Dubai, Pakistan are just mathematically alive in the tournament and depend on the result of other games in the group.</p>
<h2><strong>Here's the updated Champions Trophy Points Table</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Group A: India, New Zealand, Pakistan and Bangladesh</strong></p>
<figure class="tinymce-table-div">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 824px; height: 106px; border-width: 1px;" class="center">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 94.2812px;"><strong>Team Name</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 120.062px;"><strong>Matches Played</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 38.0781px;"><strong>Wins</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 37.3438px;"><strong>Loss</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 48.8906px;"><strong>Points</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 96.0156px;"><strong>Net Run-rate</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 94.2812px;">India</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 120.062px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 38.0781px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 37.3438px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 48.8906px;">4</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 96.0156px;">+0.647</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 94.2812px;">New Zealand</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 120.062px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 38.0781px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 37.3438px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 48.8906px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 96.0156px;">+1.20</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 94.2812px;">Bangladesh</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 120.062px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 38.0781px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 37.3438px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 48.8906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 96.0156px;">-0.408</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 94.2812px;">Pakistan</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 120.062px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 38.0781px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 37.3438px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 48.8906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px; width: 96.0156px;">-1.087</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 94.2812px;"></td>
<td style="width: 120.062px;"></td>
<td style="width: 38.0781px;"></td>
<td style="width: 37.3438px;"></td>
<td style="width: 48.8906px;"></td>
<td style="width: 96.0156px;"></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>After losing two consecutive matches, Pakistan are at the bottom of Group A points table. They now need Bangladesh and India to beat New Zealand as well as beat Bangladesh themselves to have a shot at making it to the semis of the tournament.</p>
<p>India, meanwhile, are almost through to the semis after winning both their matches. They last play New Zealand on March 2.</p>
<p>Bangladesh, on the other hand, are still in the race of semis. If they beat New Zealand and Pakistan, they will have a bright chance of making it to the top four.</p>
<p>As for New Zealand, the Kiwis will be through to semis if they beat Bangladesh on Monday (Feb 24). A New Zealand win will also mean that India and Kiwis will end of as top two teams in the group, irrespective of other results.</p>
<p><strong>Group B: Australia, England, Afghanistan and South Africa</strong></p>
<figure class="tinymce-table-div">
<figure class="tinymce-table-div">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 805px; height: 153px;"><colgroup><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Team Name</strong></td>
<td><strong>Matches Played</strong></td>
<td><strong>Wins</strong></td>
<td><strong>Loss</strong></td>
<td><strong>Points</strong></td>
<td><strong>Net Run-rate</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>South Africa</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>+2.140</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Australia</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>+0.475</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>England</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>-0.475</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Afghanistan</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>-2.140</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
</figure>
<p>South Africa beat Afghanistan by a mammoth 107 runs in the first match of Group B to earn two points and go on top of the table. The Proteas not only gained two points but also a net run-rate of +2.140 while Afghanistan are at -2.140 on the points table.</p>
<p>In the match between England and Australia, the Kangaroos became victorious by five wickets, earning two points as well as a net run-rate of +0.475. England, on the other hand, received -0.475 net run rate despite posting highest 1st innings total in the Champions Trophy history.</p>

Champions Trophy: After their loss against India on Feb 23 in Dubai, Pakistan are just mathematically alive in the tournament and depend on the result of other games in the group. Cricket Sports

Nearly half of the group-stage matches in the Champions Trophy are already done with host Pakistan becoming the first team who are all but out of the tournament. After their loss against India on Feb 23 in Dubai, Pakistan are just mathematically alive in the tournament and depend on the result of other games in the group. Here's the updated Champions Trophy Points Table Group A: India, New Zealand, Pakistan and Bangladesh Team Name Matches Played Wins Loss Points Net Run-rate India 2 2 0 4 +0.647 New Zealand 1 1 0 2 +1.20 Bangladesh 1 0 1 0 -0.408 Pakistan 2 0 2 0 -1.087 After losing two consecutive matches, Pakistan are at the bottom of Group A points table. They now need Bangladesh and India to beat New Zealand as well as beat Bangladesh themselves to have a shot at making it to the semis of the tournament. India, meanwhile, are almost through to the semis after winning both their matches. They last play New Zealand on March 2. Bangladesh, on the other hand, are still in the race of semis. If they beat New Zealand and Pakistan, they will have a bright chance of making it to the top four. As for New Zealand, the Kiwis will be through to semis if they beat Bangladesh on Monday (Feb 24). A New Zealand win will also mean that India and Kiwis will end of as top two teams in the group, irrespective of other results. Group B: Australia, England, Afghanistan and South Africa Team Name Matches Played Wins Loss Points Net Run-rate South Africa 1 1 0 2 +2.140 Australia 1 1 0 2 +0.475 England 1 0 1 0 -0.475 Afghanistan 1 0 1 0 -2.140 South Africa beat Afghanistan by a mammoth 107 runs in the first match of Group B to earn two points and go on top of the table. The Proteas not only gained two points but also a net run-rate of +2.140 while Afghanistan are at -2.140 on the points table. In the match between England and Australia, the Kangaroos became victorious by five wickets, earning two points as well as a net run-rate of +0.475. England, on the other hand, received -0.475 net run rate despite posting highest 1st innings total in the Champions Trophy history.

Champions Trophy: As host Pakistan stare at early exit here's updated points table

<p>In the shimmering heart of Dubai, where desert meets dreams, Virat Kohli painted another masterpiece on the cricketing canvas. As stadium lights pierced the velvet night sky, a familiar tale of excellence unfolded, with India&rsquo;s maestro unleashing his strokes against their eternal rivals.</p>
<p>Like a seasoned warrior returning to his favourite battleground, Kohli crafted India&rsquo;s chase of Pakistan&rsquo;s 241 with the precision of a Swiss timepiece. The target, set up by Saud Shakeel&rsquo;s gritty 62 and Mohammad Rizwan&rsquo;s crafty 46, proved insufficient against the might of India&rsquo;s batting prowess, as they cement their semi-final spot while pushing Pakistan almost out of the tournament.</p>
<p>During the chase, Shaheen Shah Afridi delivered a sharp yorker to dismantle Indian skipper Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s stumps. The dismal brought the King to the crease, amidst the deafening cheers of &lsquo;Kohli-Kohli&rsquo; from the stands.</p>
<p>At 36, when most cricketers contemplate twilight, Kohli blazed like a midday sun. His unbeaten 100 off 111 balls&mdash;his 51st ODI century&mdash;was a testament to his evergreen excellence. Between wickets, he moved with the grace of a gazelle and the determination of a desert storm, transforming ones into twos and twos into three, ever pushing the much younger batter at the other end to the limits.</p>
<p>The innings was vintage Kohli&mdash;woven with threads of technique and temperament. Each stroke spoke of decades of dedication, each run a tribute to his legendary fitness regime. Early in the innings, Kohli introduced a couple of his vintage cover drives. He struck the pacers but handled the spinners cautiously but in doing so he never took his foot of the pedal. As the chase progressed, the master craftsman carved through Pakistan&rsquo;s bowling with surgical precision.</p>
<p>Drama peaked as victory approached. Would the team&rsquo;s triumph coincide with Kohli&rsquo;s personal milestone? In a moment of poetic justice, he danced down the track to smash a boundary off Khushdil, simultaneously reaching his century and clinching India&rsquo;s win.</p>
<p>During his 111 balls innings, Kohli went past 14,000 ODI runs. Achieving the 14,000-run milestone in just 287 innings, Kohli eclipsed the legendary Sachin Tendulkar&rsquo;s record of 350 innings. After the match, Navjot Singh Sidhu made the forecast that looking at the fitness of Kohli, he can easily play for another 2-3 years.</p>
<p>Another interesting fact is that with his match-winning knock Kohli has also become the first batsman to slam a century against Pakistan in the Asia Cup, World Cup and in the Champions Trophy.</p>
<p>Yet, amidst the triumph, Kohli&rsquo;s sporting gesture towards Pakistan&rsquo;s Abrar Ahmed &mdash; a handshake acknowledging the spinner&rsquo;s excellent spell &mdash; reminded all of cricket&rsquo;s greater virtues. &ldquo;My job was clear - to control the middle overs, not take risks against spinners and take on pacers. I was happy with the template, it&rsquo;s how I play in ODIs. I have a decent understanding of my game. It&rsquo;s about keeping the outside noise away, take care of my energy levels and thoughts. It&rsquo;s easy for me to get pulled into expectations and frenzy around games like these. I kept telling myself I&rsquo;ll give my 100% while fielding. It&rsquo;s why I take pride in it. When you put your head down and go about your work, things work out,&rdquo; Kohli said, while collecting the Person of The Match Award.</p>
<p>Tonight&rsquo;s victory is yet another chapter in the ever-expanding legend of Virat Kohli, where age defied convention and class proved permanent. In the grand theatre of cricket, the king had once again claimed his throne.</p>
<p>However, it was yet another dismal performance from the Pakistan team as they showed little application of skill. After the match, skipper Mohammad Rizwan reflected, &ldquo;When Saud and I were batting, we wanted to go deep. But our shot selection was bad and lost wickets, which is why we were kept to 240. Abrar gave us the wicket, but Kohli and Gill took the game far from us. We must improve our fielding. We made a lot of mistakes this match, they&rsquo;ve repeated.&rdquo;</p>

Sports Cricket: The innings was vintage Kohli—woven with threads of technique and temperament. Each stroke spoke of decades of dedication, each run a tribute to his legendary fitness regime.

In the shimmering heart of Dubai, where desert meets dreams, Virat Kohli painted another masterpiece on the cricketing canvas. As stadium lights pierced the velvet night sky, a familiar tale of excellence unfolded, with India’s maestro unleashing his strokes against their eternal rivals. Like a seasoned warrior returning to his favourite battleground, Kohli crafted India’s chase of Pakistan’s 241 with the precision of a Swiss timepiece. The target, set up by Saud Shakeel’s gritty 62 and Mohammad Rizwan’s crafty 46, proved insufficient against the might of India’s batting prowess, as they cement their semi-final spot while pushing Pakistan almost out of the tournament. During the chase, Shaheen Shah Afridi delivered a sharp yorker to dismantle Indian skipper Rohit Sharma’s stumps. The dismal brought the King to the crease, amidst the deafening cheers of ‘Kohli-Kohli’ from the stands. At 36, when most cricketers contemplate twilight, Kohli blazed like a midday sun. His unbeaten 100 off 111 balls—his 51st ODI century—was a testament to his evergreen excellence. Between wickets, he moved with the grace of a gazelle and the determination of a desert storm, transforming ones into twos and twos into three, ever pushing the much younger batter at the other end to the limits. The innings was vintage Kohli—woven with threads of technique and temperament. Each stroke spoke of decades of dedication, each run a tribute to his legendary fitness regime. Early in the innings, Kohli introduced a couple of his vintage cover drives. He struck the pacers but handled the spinners cautiously but in doing so he never took his foot of the pedal. As the chase progressed, the master craftsman carved through Pakistan’s bowling with surgical precision. Drama peaked as victory approached. Would the team’s triumph coincide with Kohli’s personal milestone? In a moment of poetic justice, he danced down the track to smash a boundary off Khushdil, simultaneously reaching his century and clinching India’s win. During his 111 balls innings, Kohli went past 14,000 ODI runs. Achieving the 14,000-run milestone in just 287 innings, Kohli eclipsed the legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 350 innings. After the match, Navjot Singh Sidhu made the forecast that looking at the fitness of Kohli, he can easily play for another 2-3 years. Another interesting fact is that with his match-winning knock Kohli has also become the first batsman to slam a century against Pakistan in the Asia Cup, World Cup and in the Champions Trophy. Yet, amidst the triumph, Kohli’s sporting gesture towards Pakistan’s Abrar Ahmed — a handshake acknowledging the spinner’s excellent spell — reminded all of cricket’s greater virtues. “My job was clear - to control the middle overs, not take risks against spinners and take on pacers. I was happy with the template, it’s how I play in ODIs. I have a decent understanding of my game. It’s about keeping the outside noise away, take care of my energy levels and thoughts. It’s easy for me to get pulled into expectations and frenzy around games like these. I kept telling myself I’ll give my 100% while fielding. It’s why I take pride in it. When you put your head down and go about your work, things work out,” Kohli said, while collecting the Person of The Match Award. Tonight’s victory is yet another chapter in the ever-expanding legend of Virat Kohli, where age defied convention and class proved permanent. In the grand theatre of cricket, the king had once again claimed his throne. However, it was yet another dismal performance from the Pakistan team as they showed little application of skill. After the match, skipper Mohammad Rizwan reflected, “When Saud and I were batting, we wanted to go deep. But our shot selection was bad and lost wickets, which is why we were kept to 240. Abrar gave us the wicket, but Kohli and Gill took the game far from us. We must improve our fielding. We made a lot of mistakes this match, they’ve repeated.”

At 36, Kohli’s record-shattering century guides India to a famous victory against Pakistan

<p>Ace Indian seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-shami" rel="dofollow">Mohammad Shami</a> bowled five wides in his 11-ball first over against Pakistan in Dubai in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a>, becoming the first-ever from the country to bowl as many wides in a single over in One Dayers. Unlike how he began in the tournament opener against Bangladesh at the same venue, having picked a wicket in his first over, the right-arm seamer bowled wayward this time, giving away free runs to Pakistan.</p>
<p>Up until now, several Indian bowlers had bowled four wides in an over, including ex-India quick Zaheer Khan, who did it four times (twice against Sri Lanka in 2012 and twice during the 2003 ODI World Cup), and RP Singh, who bowled it twice. Laxmipathy Balaji and Irfan Pathan are the other two seamers who once held this unwanted record.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7hh4qz5-15l70tnv-0hpm8mzh">
<p dir="ltr" lang="und">Mohammed Shami becomes the FIRST Indian to bowl 5 wide balls in an over in ODIs.<br><br>5 - Mohammed Shami v PAK, TODAY<br>4 - Zaheer Khan v AUS, 2003<br>4 - Zaheer Khan v NETH, 2003<br>4 - L Balaji v SL, 2004<br>4 - RP Singh v AUS, 2007<br>4 - RP Singh v BAN, 2008<br>4 - Zaheer Khan v SL, 2012<br>4 -&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/ek252kybrp">pic.twitter.com/ek252kybrp</a></p>
&mdash; Kausthub Gudipati (@kaustats) <a href="https://twitter.com/kaustats/status/1893595540841226527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-rawalpindi-weather-forecast-for-pak-ban-game-piles-pressure-on-pakistan-ahead-of-india-face-off-8748757" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: Rawalpindi forecast for PAK-BAN game piles pressure on Pakistan ahead of India face-off</a></strong></p>
<p>Coming around the wicket to Imam-ul-Haq, who walked in as a replacement for injured <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/fakhar-zaman" rel="dofollow">Fakhar Zaman</a>, Shami bowled a couple of them on the leg side before going wide from the batter on the offside, keeping keeper KL Rahul busy behind the stumps. Although he bowled 11 balls, Shami conceded just six runs.</p>
<h2>Even Stevens in the PP</h2>
<p>While Pakistan made just one forced change to their playing XI, India played the winning combination in their second match. Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan won the toss and elected to bat first, with a new opening pair attracting all eyeballs.</p>
<p>Following a steady start, star batter Babar Azam opened his arms against Harshit Rana, driving two beautiful-looking shots on either side. Babar looked in ominous touch, taking on Hardik Pandya on the offside. Before he departed for a well-made 23 off 26 (to Pandya, caught behind), he came down the track to Axar Patel, hitting him over long-on for a boundary, much to cheers from thousands of Pakistani fans in attendance.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7hh58ne-sr7b3yxq-1x95n2s3">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India fight back by sending back the Pakistan openers 👊<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketReels?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketReels</a><br><br>Watch LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a> in India. <br><br>Here's how to watch LIVE wherever you are 👉 <a href="https://t.co/S0poKnxpTX">https://t.co/S0poKnxpTX</a> <a href="https://t.co/bvaaU2bjnV">pic.twitter.com/bvaaU2bjnV</a></p>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1893602228373725527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>After India broke the partnership, Axar Patel&rsquo;s direct throw in the next over (off Kuldeep Yadav) accounted for Imam, who fell shy of his crease, getting out on 10.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Shami, who left the field with concerns around his leg inside the Powerplay, returned after its completion.&nbsp;</p>

Cricket, Sports: Previously, several Indian bowlers had bowled four wides in an over in ODIs, but none five, and Mohammed Shami broke this record against Pakistan.

Ace Indian seamer Mohammad Shami bowled five wides in his 11-ball first over against Pakistan in Dubai in the Champions Trophy, becoming the first-ever from the country to bowl as many wides in a single over in One Dayers. Unlike how he began in the tournament opener against Bangladesh at the same venue, having picked a wicket in his first over, the right-arm seamer bowled wayward this time, giving away free runs to Pakistan. Up until now, several Indian bowlers had bowled four wides in an over, including ex-India quick Zaheer Khan, who did it four times (twice against Sri Lanka in 2012 and twice during the 2003 ODI World Cup), and RP Singh, who bowled it twice. Laxmipathy Balaji and Irfan Pathan are the other two seamers who once held this unwanted record. Mohammed Shami becomes the FIRST Indian to bowl 5 wide balls in an over in ODIs. 5 - Mohammed Shami v PAK, TODAY 4 - Zaheer Khan v AUS, 2003 4 - Zaheer Khan v NETH, 2003 4 - L Balaji v SL, 2004 4 - RP Singh v AUS, 2007 4 - RP Singh v BAN, 2008 4 - Zaheer Khan v SL, 2012 4 -… pic.twitter.com/ek252kybrp — Kausthub Gudipati (@kaustats) February 23, 2025 Also read | Champions Trophy: Rawalpindi forecast for PAK-BAN game piles pressure on Pakistan ahead of India face-off Coming around the wicket to Imam-ul-Haq, who walked in as a replacement for injured Fakhar Zaman, Shami bowled a couple of them on the leg side before going wide from the batter on the offside, keeping keeper KL Rahul busy behind the stumps. Although he bowled 11 balls, Shami conceded just six runs. Even Stevens in the PP While Pakistan made just one forced change to their playing XI, India played the winning combination in their second match. Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan won the toss and elected to bat first, with a new opening pair attracting all eyeballs. Following a steady start, star batter Babar Azam opened his arms against Harshit Rana, driving two beautiful-looking shots on either side. Babar looked in ominous touch, taking on Hardik Pandya on the offside. Before he departed for a well-made 23 off 26 (to Pandya, caught behind), he came down the track to Axar Patel, hitting him over long-on for a boundary, much to cheers from thousands of Pakistani fans in attendance. India fight back by sending back the Pakistan openers 👊#PAKvIND #ChampionsTrophy #Cricket #CricketReels Watch LIVE on @StarSportsIndia in India. Here's how to watch LIVE wherever you are 👉 https://t.co/S0poKnxpTX pic.twitter.com/bvaaU2bjnV — ICC (@ICC) February 23, 2025 After India broke the partnership, Axar Patel’s direct throw in the next over (off Kuldeep Yadav) accounted for Imam, who fell shy of his crease, getting out on 10. Meanwhile, Shami, who left the field with concerns around his leg inside the Powerplay, returned after its completion.

IND vs PAK: Shami bowls 5 wides in 11-ball first over – an unwanted record! Check full list

<p>Pakistan finds itself in hot waters after conceding the chance to pocket two crucial points against New Zealand in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a> opener in Karachi. A 60-run loss at the hands of Kiwis turned out too much to take for the hosts, who next face arch-rivals India in Dubai on Sunday (Feb 23) before taking on Bangladesh in their final league game at the Pindi Stadium in Rawalpindi.</p>
<p>Already <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-how-can-pakistan-qualify-for-semis-if-they-lose-to-india-explained-8746014" rel="dofollow">struggling for a place in the semis</a>, a loss against the Men in Blue could virtually send them packing four days into their home tournament. Though that&rsquo;d be a massive blow to the team and the country that celebrated the return of an ICC event to their soil for the first time since 1996, things could get worse should they depend on their result against Bangladesh to cruise ahead.</p>
<p>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/win-at-any-cost-pcb-chief-mohasin-naqvi-strong-message-to-pakistan-against-india-in-champions-trophy-8748472" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy - 'Win at any cost,' PCB chief's strong message to Pakistan Team against India</a></p>
<p>Per Accuweather, rain might hit the city from February 25 onwards till March 1, with the weather forecast on Thursday (Feb 27) &ndash; the match day between Pakistan and Bangladesh, indicating an 84 per cent chance of rain, with 96 per cent cloud cover. If that does happen, Pakistan&rsquo;s last home game could be washed out, knocking them out of the semis race.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, for Pakistan to ensure they aren&rsquo;t facing more hiccups in this tournament, not only do they have to beat India comprehensively in Dubai, but they also have to expect other results to fall in their favour. Even if Pakistan emerged victorious against their arch-rivals, they would have to win against Bangladesh to advance to the last four.</p>
<h2>India-Pakistan blockbuster tie</h2>
<p>India and Pakistan will face off in this format for the first time since the 2023 ODI World Cup, where the host beat the Men in Green in another one-sided contest. Although India also beat them in next year&rsquo;s T20 World Cup in the Americas, their record against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy (2-3) showcases a different picture.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Pakistan has lost the previous five contested ODIs against India, with their last win coming during the 2017 Champions Trophy final, when they won by a whopping 180 runs. Ironically, that was the last time a Champions Trophy game was played.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Eight years later, Pakistan plays hosts to this tournament, with seven out of eight participating teams playing their matches in the country; India is the only exception that will play all its matches in Dubai, including the knockouts, should they qualify.</p>
<p>Due to tense political relations between both countries, the Indian Government denied permission to the Indian squad to travel across the border, forcing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pcb-open-to-hybrid-model-urges-same-for-events-in-india-781329" rel="dofollow">PCB to accept the hybrid model</a>.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Pakistan lost their tournament opener to New Zealand, and to qualify for the semis, they must beat India and Bangladesh in their remaining two matches.

Pakistan finds itself in hot waters after conceding the chance to pocket two crucial points against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy 2025 opener in Karachi. A 60-run loss at the hands of Kiwis turned out too much to take for the hosts, who next face arch-rivals India in Dubai on Sunday (Feb 23) before taking on Bangladesh in their final league game at the Pindi Stadium in Rawalpindi. Already struggling for a place in the semis, a loss against the Men in Blue could virtually send them packing four days into their home tournament. Though that’d be a massive blow to the team and the country that celebrated the return of an ICC event to their soil for the first time since 1996, things could get worse should they depend on their result against Bangladesh to cruise ahead. Also read | Champions Trophy - 'Win at any cost,' PCB chief's strong message to Pakistan Team against India Per Accuweather, rain might hit the city from February 25 onwards till March 1, with the weather forecast on Thursday (Feb 27) – the match day between Pakistan and Bangladesh, indicating an 84 per cent chance of rain, with 96 per cent cloud cover. If that does happen, Pakistan’s last home game could be washed out, knocking them out of the semis race. Meanwhile, for Pakistan to ensure they aren’t facing more hiccups in this tournament, not only do they have to beat India comprehensively in Dubai, but they also have to expect other results to fall in their favour. Even if Pakistan emerged victorious against their arch-rivals, they would have to win against Bangladesh to advance to the last four. India-Pakistan blockbuster tie India and Pakistan will face off in this format for the first time since the 2023 ODI World Cup, where the host beat the Men in Green in another one-sided contest. Although India also beat them in next year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas, their record against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy (2-3) showcases a different picture. Pakistan has lost the previous five contested ODIs against India, with their last win coming during the 2017 Champions Trophy final, when they won by a whopping 180 runs. Ironically, that was the last time a Champions Trophy game was played. Eight years later, Pakistan plays hosts to this tournament, with seven out of eight participating teams playing their matches in the country; India is the only exception that will play all its matches in Dubai, including the knockouts, should they qualify. Due to tense political relations between both countries, the Indian Government denied permission to the Indian squad to travel across the border, forcing the PCB to accept the hybrid model. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: Rawalpindi forecast for PAK-BAN game piles pressure on Pakistan ahead of India face-off

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