Pakistan all-rounder Salman Ali Agha has shared his thoughts on the highly anticipated clash against India in the 2025 Champions Trophy. While the spin-bowling all-rounder is eager for a win against their arch-rivals, he expressed that Pakistan would be willing to accept a loss to India if it helps them successfully defend their title.
The much-awaited encounter is scheduled to take place on February 23 at the Dubai International Stadium, with tickets for the game reportedly selling out in minutes. This is not surprising, as India and Pakistan rarely face off due to the political tensions between the two nations.
In an interview with Salman Butt on the PCB podcast, Salman spoke about the upcoming fixture and the significance of the rivalry.
“Winning the Champions Trophy is the ultimate goal. Obviously, we want to beat India, but if we happen to lose to them and still go on to win the tournament, that would be an even greater accomplishment.”
“I’m really enjoying the role. It’s a new challenge, but I’m trying to balance it with my game.”
Salman recently earned the Player of the Series award for his standout performance in the tri-nation series, where he scored 219 runs and impressed with his fielding. One of his highlights was a maiden ODI century off just 87 balls in a crucial game against South Africa in Karachi. However, Pakistan lost to New Zealand in the final of the series.
As far as the Champions Trophy goes, Pakistan holds a 3-2 lead over India in head-to-head matchups. Pakistan defeated India in 2004 and 2009, while India triumphed in 2013. The two sides also faced off in 2017, with India winning in the group stage, but Pakistan claimed victory in the final at The Oval to lift their first-ever Champions Trophy.
Pakistan will begin their 2025 Champions Trophy campaign on February 19 against New Zealand in Karachi, while India will play Bangladesh the following day in Dubai.