In the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, Pakistan was 77 for 2 in 19 overs a short while ago against India in a high-stakes Group A clash at the Dubai International Stadium. Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first. Pakistan lost two quick wickets, with Hardik Pandya dismissing Babar Azam and Axar Patel’s incredible direct hit ending Imam-ul-Haq’s stay.
Pakistan made one change to their playing XI, bringing in Imam-ul-Haq in place of Fakhar Zaman, while India has retained the same lineup from their victory against Bangladesh. India, led by Rohit Sharma, made an impressive start to their campaign with a commanding six-wicket victory over Bangladesh on Wednesday.
On the other hand, defending champions Pakistan were handed a 60-run defeat by New Zealand in their opening match in Karachi. A win for India today would virtually secure their place in the semi-finals of the eight-team tournament, while Pakistan faces a must-win situation to stay in contention for the last four.
India has won the last five ODI matches played between the two nations, with Pakistan’s last win coming all the way back in the final of the 2017 edition of this tournament.