Pakistan vs India, ICCCT, Reddy Anna Book Match Prediction

PAK vs IND Match Prediction & Analysis

The biggest rivalry in cricket takes center stage this Sunday at Dubai, as India and Pakistan lock horns in what promises to be an explosive Champions Trophy encounter. India come into this matchup riding high after outplaying Bangladesh in their opening game, while Pakistan are looking to regroup following a heavy defeat to New Zealand. Recent history in this format tilts heavily in India’s favor, and with their current hot streak, they’re tipped to come out on top in this high-voltage clash.

TEAMS PREVIEW

Pakistan Preview

Pakistan’s Champions Trophy campaign started on the worst possible note, suffering a heavy defeat against New Zealand on home soil. The Kiwis, after being in trouble at 73-3, recovered brilliantly to post a commanding 320-5. In response, Pakistan struggled to keep up with the required rate and folded for 260.

The loss exposed Pakistan’s issues in all areas, and they will need a much-improved effort to challenge India. Adding to their concerns, they will now be without Fakhar Zaman, who has been ruled out due to injury. Imam-ul-Haq has been called in as his replacement for the remainder of the tournament.

A lack of intent in the chase was Pakistan’s biggest downfall. Salman Agha (42 off 28) and Khushdil Shah (69 off 49) were the only ones who tried to up the scoring rate, but the rest of the lineup failed to show urgency. With classy players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan certainly has the talent to put up a strong fight, but their approach needs to change.

In terms of bowling, Pakistan have a solid pace attack with Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf leading the charge. However, their recent inconsistency is a concern, especially on a slower pitch like this. Abrar Ahmed’s spell could prove crucial as he has the ability to trouble India’s middle order with his spin.

Key Players: Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmed

Pakistan Predicted Playing XI:

Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed

India Preview

India began their Champions Trophy run with a solid six-wicket win over Bangladesh. After bowling out their opponents for 228 on a sluggish pitch, they chased the target down in 46.3 overs. While there were some tense moments, Shubman Gill’s unbeaten 101 ensured a smooth finish, with KL Rahul (41* off 47) and Rohit Sharma (41 off 36) contributing crucial runs.

Looking ahead, India will be hoping for more stability from their middle order, which has had a habit of losing wickets cheaply before the lower order bails them out. Virat Kohli’s form is another concern, but his track record in big matches and a career average of 52.15 against Pakistan make him a player to watch.

Shubman Gill’s recent performances make him India’s most in-form batter at the moment, having scored two centuries and four straight 50+ scores. KL Rahul, who looked fluent in the last game, is also expected to play an important role.

On the bowling side, India will be encouraged by Mohammed Shami’s return to form. The experienced pacer grabbed 5-53 in the previous match and is gaining momentum with every outing. Additionally, the spin combination of Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel will be crucial on this pitch, as they can make scoring difficult in the middle overs.

Key Players: Shubman Gill, Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer

India Predicted Playing XI:

Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav

Weather Conditions

The Dubai pitch showed a sluggish character in the match between India and Bangladesh, with the surface looking dry and slightly cracked. Early moisture might help seamers in the first hour, but expect the pitch to slow down considerably as the game progresses. The ball’s likely to grip and turn for spinners, particularly in the middle overs. Batting second could be tricky under lights, with dew playing a minimal role.

The weather in Dubai will be warm, pleasant, and clear with absolutely no chance of any rain interruption.

PAK vs IND Pitch Report

The average score batting first at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium is just 219, showing that this isn’t a high-scoring venue. We reckon a score of around 260-270 by the team batting first will be challenging to chase. Toss: To BatTeams batting second at Dubai International Cricket Stadium have found success recently, winning five of the previous six ODIs at this venue. But the sticky wicket we witnessed in the last match might change tactics – both sides will likely prefer setting a