Inzamam-ul-Haq, the former captain of Pakistan, emphasized the value of Indian batting mainstays Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. One of cricket’s most intense and illustrious rivalries is that between India and Pakistan. Cricket legends offered their perspectives on the importance of this match as the two teams get ready for their matchup in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on February 23.
India will play after defeating Bangladesh by a commanding six wickets in their opening match of the competition. Mohammed Shami’s five-wicket haul and Shubman Gill‘ s century were key contributors to India’s victory. However, Pakistan struggled with the bat and the ball and lost to New Zealand by a dismal 60 runs. Only two teams advance to the semifinals from each group, therefore Pakistan needs to defeat India to maintain their aspirations.
The significance of Rohit and Kohli in India’s batting order was emphasized by the former captain of Pakistan. He said that when a major player leaves early, the team feels the pressure and the opposition develops confidence, likening their impact to that of Babar Azam in Pakistan’s setup.
“All Indian players are unquestionably excellent, but Virat and Rohit are exceptional. This is due to their enormous influence on the squad and their nearly two decades of steady performance. On JioHotstar’s special episode Greatest Rivalry Returns, Inzamam stated that if they leave early, it will have a big impact on India’s dressing room and boost Pakistan’s spirits.
“The remaining Indian players are still growing, but that doesn’t mean they won’t perform—they are extremely gifted. In a same vein, the opposing bowlers gain momentum when Babar Azam is removed for Pakistan, and the strain is felt in the dressing room. The lower and middle order must do better if Pakistan is to win. Pakistan may benefit if India loses both Virat and Rohit early,” he continued.
Rohit can hook it with ease: Yuvraj Singh
Yuvraj Singh, a former Indian cricket player, has similar opinions, particularly on Rohit Sharma’s ability to win matches. The Indian captain’s ability to score quickly and handle short-pitched deliveries was commended by Yuvraj. He said that Rohit is a dangerous batter who can take the game away from the opponent in a few overs thanks to his strike rate of 120–140.
“It makes no difference to me whether Rohit Sharma is in or out of form. I would consistently support my match winners. Alongside Virat Kohli, he has been India’s top batsmen in ODI cricket, particularly in white-ball formats. It is risky for the opposition if Rohit is having trouble but still scores runs. He will reach a century in 60 balls if he is playing well. He has the ability to clear the ropes with sixes once he gets going, rather than merely hitting fours.
“He is among the top short ball players as well. Rohit can hook it with ease, even if the bowler is bowling at 145–150 kmph. On his best day, he can win the match by himself, according to the former Indian all-rounder, who claims that his strike rate is consistently between 120 and 140.
India
