ICC Champions Trophy
Champions Trophy 2025: IND vs PAK Predicted Playing XI – Arshdeep Singh In, Imam-ul-Haq Replaces Fakhar Zaman
The India vs Pakistan clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is one of the most highly anticipated encounters in world cricket. With both teams looking to secure a crucial win, the selection of the Playing XI becomes an intense debate. Based on recent performances, form, and match conditions, changes are expected in both squads. Experts, including The Indian Express, have argued for the inclusion of Arshdeep Singh, Mohammad Hasnain, and Imam-ul-Haq for this high-stakes showdown.
India vs Pakistan: A Battle of Nerves & Strategy
An India-Pakistan game is never just about skills—it’s about temperament, pressure handling, and game awareness. With the intensity of the match, team management has to make tactical decisions while balancing form, fitness, and playing conditions. Injuries and strategic shifts have forced both teams to rethink their combinations ahead of this crucial fixture in Dubai.
Arshdeep Singh vs Harshit Rana – India’s Pacer Dilemma
One of the key decisions for India will be whether to persist with Harshit Rana or bring in Arshdeep Singh. Both bowlers offer contrasting skill sets, and their selection will be based on conditions and opposition strategies.
✅ Harshit Rana’s Case:
Starred against Bangladesh with a 3-wicket haul (3/31).
His ability to hit the deck hard can be useful against Pakistan’s top order.
✅ Why Arshdeep Singh Could Get the Nod:
Swings the new ball effectively, a crucial factor in Dubai’s conditions.
Has experience in high-pressure situations, including dismissing Babar Azam in his first-ever T20 World Cup 2022 delivery.
Finished as the leading wicket-taker in the Vijay Hazare Trophy (20 wickets), showing strong 50-over form.
Given his ability to move the ball both ways and trouble right-handers, Arshdeep could be a vital asset in the powerplay overs.
Pakistan’s Key Change: Imam-ul-Haq In for Fakhar Zaman
Pakistan’s top order has been a concern, with Fakhar Zaman struggling for form. To strengthen their batting lineup, selectors are likely to opt for Imam-ul-Haq, who brings stability and experience.
✅ Why Imam-ul-Haq?
Offers more consistency in ODIs compared to Fakhar.
Can anchor the innings, allowing the likes of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to play more freely.
Familiar with playing in UAE conditions, which could benefit Pakistan.
With Pakistan’s middle order also showing inconsistency, Imam’s presence at the top could be crucial in ensuring a solid foundation.
Predicted Playing XI for IND vs PAK (Champions Trophy 2025)
India’s Predicted XI:
Rohit Sharma (C)
Shubman Gill
Virat Kohli
Shreyas Iyer
KL Rahul (WK)
Hardik Pandya
Ravindra Jadeja
Axar Patel
Arshdeep Singh/Harshit Rana
Mohammed Shami
Kuldeep Yadav
Pakistan’s Predicted XI:
Imam-ul-Haq
Babar Azam (C)
Saud Shakeel
Mohammad Rizwan (WK)
Salman Agha
Tayyab Tahir
Khushdil Shah
Shaheen Shah Afridi
Naseem Shah
Haris Rauf
Mohammad Hasnain/Abrar Ahmed
Final Thoughts
With both teams looking to field their strongest XI, the inclusion of Arshdeep Singh for India and Imam-ul-Haq for Pakistan could be the key decisions that shape the outcome of this blockbuster match. As February 23 approaches, cricket fans around the world will be eagerly waiting to see which team comes out on top in this ultimate battle of nerves and skill.
Will Arshdeep’s swing trouble Pakistan’s batters? Can Imam stabilize Pakistan’s top order? The stage is set for an electrifying contest!
