Who will open for Pakistan in Champions Trophy 2025 clash?

As Pakistan prepare for their crucial ICC Champions Trophy clash against India, all eyes are on their opening pair.

With Fakhar Zaman ruled out due to injury, team management is expected to send Imam-ul-Haq to open the innings alongside Babar Azam.

Reports suggest Imam’s inclusion will be the only change in Pakistan’s playing XI for the high-pressure match in Dubai.

The rest of the squad is likely to remain intact, featuring Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Abrar Ahmed.

Pakistan hold an edge over India in Champions Trophy encounters, winning three out of five meetings, while India have won twice.

With both teams aiming for a strong start, the opening partnership will be crucial in setting the tone for the contest.

Ahead of the clash at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, the weather conditions are expected to be hot with a temperature of 32°C and a mild wind of 15 km/h. The chance of rain is minimal, at just 1%, which is a relief for fans.

The pitch at Dubai is known to become more favourable for batting as the match progresses into the evening, though it is likely to slow down, making chasing a challenging task.

In the earlier India-Bangladesh match, chasing 229 runs proved difficult as the surface slowed down. Teams batting first will have an advantage, with the best time to bat likely to be in the initial innings.