Hardik Pandya Removes Babar Azam Early As Pakistan Opts To Bat First In Champions Trophy 2025
In a high-voltage Champions Trophy 2025 Group A match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium today, Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first against India.
Pakistan made one change to their lineup, bringing in Imam-ul-Haq to replace Fakhar Zaman, while India remained unchanged after their 6-wicket victory over Bangladesh on February 20, 2025.
The match is crucial for Pakistan, who are under pressure after a 60-run loss to New Zealand in their opening game.
For them, today’s encounter is a must-win to keep their hopes of defending the Champions Trophy alive. If Pakistan loses and New Zealand beats Bangladesh on February 24, they will be eliminated from the tournament, with India and New Zealand securing spots in the semifinals.
Pakistan started cautiously, but the Indian bowlers made an early breakthrough. Hardik Pandya, who was introduced into the attack in the 8th over, struck a massive blow for India by dismissing Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam for 23.
HARDIK PANDYA GETS BABAR AZAM.
– Superb from Hardik, Babar Azam missed 80 ball half century today#INDvPAK #ICCChampionsTrophy pic.twitter.com/2CbDPWZrHM
— Champions Trophy 2025 Commentary 🧢 (@IPL2025Auction) February 23, 2025
Pandya bowled a full delivery outside off, which tempted Babar into a cover drive, only for the ball to catch the edge and be caught behind. This wicket left Pakistan at 41/1 in 8.2 overs.
Earlier, Pakistan’s opening pair, Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq had put together a steady partnership, with Babar hitting a boundary in the 8th over off Axar Patel’s spin.
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The two had looked comfortable, but Pandya’s wicket of Babar Azam has given India the upper hand in the match.
Pakistan are now looking to recover after the early setback, and Imam-ul-Haq will play a key role in rebuilding the innings. India, on the other hand, will be keen to press for more wickets and capitalise on their early success.
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As the game progresses, both teams fight for a crucial spot in the semifinals of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. India’s Kuldeep Yadav has now entered the attack, with Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel batting live at the crease.
