Champions Trophy 2025: Shoaib Akhtar and Shoaib Malik guide Pakistan with key advice ahead of India clash

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 started on a disappointing note for Pakistan, as they suffered a comprehensive 60-run defeat at the hands of New Zealand in the tournament opener at the National Stadium in Karachi. Chasing a challenging target of 320 runs on a relatively flat wicket, Pakistan’s batting unit failed to put up a strong fight, resulting in a subpar performance that has now placed them in a must-win scenario against arch-rivals India in Dubai on February 23.

New Zealand’s clinical performance against Pakistan

New Zealand, opting to bat first, posted a formidable 320, led by centuries from Will Young and Tom Latham, with Glenn Phillips adding a quick fifty. Pakistan’s bowlers struggled, lacking a sixth bowling option. In response, Pakistan’s chase faltered early, managing only 22 runs in the first 10 overs. Babar Azam top-scored with 64 off 90 but struggled with his strike rate. Salman Agha (42 off 28) and Khushdil Shah (69 off 49) provided late resistance.  Despite having wickets in hand, Pakistan’s inability to accelerate at crucial stages cost them dearly, and they eventually folded for a total that was 60 runs short of the target.

Shoaib Akhtar’s final warning: Must-win clash against India

With their loss against New Zealand, Pakistan’s campaign now hinges on their upcoming encounter against India at the Dubai International Stadium on February 23. The match is nothing short of a do-or-die scenario, and a defeat would significantly dent their hopes of progressing further in the tournament. Former Pakistan cricketers Shoaib Malik and Shoaib Akhtar weighed in on Pakistan’s situation, expressing both concern and optimism.

Malik emphasized the significance of the India match, stating that any player who delivers a match-winning performance in a high-pressure encounter against their arch-rivals will instantly become a national hero.

“I’m very hopeful that we still have a chance to beat India in our next match. And then we will continue our campaign against Bangladesh. Of course, morale is down. Confidence is down. But I think the character is still there. Imagine if someone wins this do-or-die game against India; he will become an instant superstar. There is pressure, but also an opportunity. Take it as an opportunity,” Malik said on Shoaib Akhtar’s YouTube channel.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Meet the wives and girlfriends of Indian cricketers

Shoaib Akhtar’s perspective: Pakistan’s last chance to stay alive

Echoing similar sentiments, former pacer Akhtar urged Pakistan to adopt an aggressive approach against India rather than playing defensively. He pointed out key tactical flaws in Pakistan’s performance against New Zealand and stressed the importance of rectifying them before facing a stronger Indian side.

“Rather than being on the defensive, Pakistan must play attacking cricket. I wish them the best of luck against India. Overall, it was a very disappointing performance against New Zealand. If we look at the technical side, there are a lot of things to improve,” Akhtar said.

Akhtar highlighted Pakistan’s flawed team selection, particularly the lack of bowling depth. The former speedster further noted that Pakistan’s batting approach against New Zealand was too conservative and that they must show more urgency against India.

“There should have been at least 5-6 bowlers. India, for example, always plays with a combination of 6-7 bowling options. Pakistan’s planning process has been lacking, and now they have put themselves in a difficult spot. If you had played it like a do-or-die game, it would have been different. If you had fielded better or shown more effort in the field, then it could have been a different story. Now, against India, you must not make the same mistakes,” Akhtar concluded.

India vs Pakistan: The ultimate test of character

As Pakistan heads into the high-voltage clash against India, the pressure on Babar and his team is immense. They will have to overcome not only their poor start but also the psychological barrier of facing an Indian side known for its big-match temperament. For India, a win against Pakistan would all but confirm their progression to the next stage, whereas Pakistan must deliver a flawless performance to keep their campaign alive. The Dubai International Stadium is set to witness another chapter in one of cricket’s greatest rivalries, and with Pakistan’s survival at stake, this encounter promises to be an enthralling contest.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Meet the wives and girlfriends of Pakistan cricketers