India know to handle tough situations; Pakistan have plenty of problems: Irfan Pathan

The much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash between India and Pakistan, is scheduled to take place on February 23 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Ahead of this encounter, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan opened up on both teams' capabilities, specifying that India’s ability to handle pressure gives them an edge over their arch-rivals.

Pathan stressed that the Men in Blue have consistently shown calmness in high-pressure situations, a quality that sets them apart from Pakistan. According to him, India’s recent performances reflect their ability to stay composed under challenging situations, something that will play a crucial role in the upcoming match. 

"When it comes to Pakistan, look, they have plenty of problems in the team... As far as some of the senior guys (are concerned), they don't play that kind of aggressive modern-day cricket, especially in white-ball cricket. So, can they change it? It's very difficult. But more than the weaknesses and the strengths, it's all about the India-Pakistan occasion. Whoever handles the occasion really well, that team wins," Pathan said as quoted by TOI.

With only two teams from each group qualifying for the semifinals, Pakistan is in a must-win situation against India. However, given India’s current form and their ability to perform during tough scenarios, Pathan believes Rohit Sharma’s side has the upper hand.

"What we have seen in the recent past with the Indian team, we know how to handle a tough situation and the big occasion as well. As far as the talent is concerned, we are far ahead, especially in one-day cricket. We (India) have good all-round abilities in the team as well. Axar (Patel) is picking up wickets and we have a lot of options as well," he added.

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"Hopefully that momentum will be carried... Shubman is in tremendous form and once Rohit and Virat keep scoring runs consistently, this team will be unstoppable, good to see Mohammed Shami get a fifer. He will get a lot of confidence out of it as well because after injury, coming back on the field, it's not easy, especially for fast bowlers (but) he did well," Pathan concluded.

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Meanwhile, the former champions' campaign started on a strong note with a six-wicket win over Bangladesh. Shubman Gill, smashed a match-winning century, supported by KL Rahul’s crucial contribution. Mohammed Shami's five-wicket haul ensured Bangladesh was restricted to 229 runs before India chased the target with six wickets in hands.

On the other hand, Pakistan’s Champions Trophy campaign began on a poor note with a 60-run defeat to New Zealand in Karachi. The Kiwis posted a huge total, thanks to centuries from Tom Latham (118*) and Will Young (107), while Glenn Phillips’ 61 further contributed with the bat. In response, Pakistan were bowled out for 260 following a dismal batting display. To make matters worse, opener Fakhar Zaman has been ruled out of the tournament due to an oblique tear, with Imam-ul-Haq replacing him.