Compared to India, we are weaker because we lack players that can put up consistent performances: Shahid Afridi

Shahid Afridi, a former captain of Pakistan, believes that India’s current lineup has more match-winners than Pakistan. Additionally, he revealed India’s greatest strength. He emphasized that every player in the starting lineup would need to contribute if Pakistan were to win.

A thrilling match between India and Pakistan will take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on February 23 in Match 5 of the 2025 Champions Trophy.

In my opinion, India has more match-winners than Pakistan when it comes to match-winners. Someone who can win the game by themselves is a match-winner. Such players do not now exist in Pakistan. India has been winning matches because to its middle and lower order power.

We’ve been giving players chances for a while, but nobody has consistently stepped up,” Shahid Afridi stated on JioHotstar.

Some have played a few games, but none of our participants have played consistently for a year, two years, or fifty to sixty games. That is where India, which is quite strong in this area, is a little stronger than us. However, teamwork is essential to defeating India; each player’s participation is vital, whether they are bowlers, spinners, or hitters,” he continued.

Playing in the present and adjusting to the circumstances is key: Yuvraj

Yuvraj Singh, a former Indian great, stated on the same broadcast that Pakistan had the advantage since their team was more accustomed to the Dubai climate.

Since Pakistan has a base in Dubai, I do believe they have an advantage. They are familiar with the conditions because they have played a lot of cricket there. Indian and Pakistani players, who have historically played spin brilliantly, are among the best on slower wickets. I agree with Shahid Afridi that we have more match-winners, as you mentioned. However, I think that one player can still win the game even if Pakistan has fewer match-winners.

“The India-Pakistan match is about playing in the present, adjusting to the circumstances, and not allowing expectations get in the way. It’s not just about match winners. Yuvraj stated, “The team that performs this better will win the game for their country.”

In the meanwhile, the two teams’ starts in the Champions Trophy 2025 were quite different. India easily defeated Bangladesh by six wickets, while Pakistan was unable to chase down New Zealand’s 321-run mark. Still, there is a lot of excitement surrounding the highly anticipated event, and Sunday’s game is sure to be very exciting.