Mohammad Amir predicts Pakistan’s advantage in Champions Trophy match against India

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has weighed in on the much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, predicting that Pakistan will have the upper hand. The high-stakes encounter is set to take place on February 23, 2025, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

In an interview, Amir pointed to Pakistan’s recent strong performances against top-flight teams as proof of their prowess in overseas conditions. “The way Pakistan are performing, including beating Australia in their own backyard and South Africa, shows their ability. Based on these performances, I believe Pakistan will have an edge over India,” he said.

While acknowledging India’s historic dominance in ODI World Cups and their strong reputation in major tournaments, Amir highlighted the pressure the Indian team is currently under due to recent setbacks. He also highlighted the importance of Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness, suggesting that the star pacer’s absence will significantly weaken India’s bowling attack.

“If Bumrah is not available, it will be a huge blow for India. He is their leading bowler and a key figure in their attack,” noted Amir.

Historically, Pakistan have a mixed record against India in the Champions Trophy, winning two of their five encounters. Their most notable win came in the 2017 final, where Pakistan triumphed by 180 runs, with Amir’s spell dismissing key Indian batsmen Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan.

The eight-team, 15-match ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be played from February 19 to March 9 at venues in Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi and Dubai. Group A includes Pakistan, India, New Zealand and Bangladesh, while Group B includes Afghanistan, South Africa, England and Australia.

The tournament will begin on February 19, with hosts Pakistan taking on New Zealand in Karachi. Several teams including England, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Australia, South Africa and Bangladesh have already announced their squads.

As excitement builds for the event, the India-Pakistan clash remains the highlight, with fans eagerly awaiting another chapter in cricket’s fiercest rivalry.