Pakistan Have the Advantage Over India in Champions Trophy 2025, Claims Muhammad Yousuf
As Pakistan gears up to host its first ICC event in 29 years, legendary batter Muhammad Yousuf has voiced his excitement and confidence in the national team’s chances at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. With the tournament set to begin with Pakistan’s opening clash against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19, Yousuf believes that playing in home conditions gives Pakistan an advantage over arch-rivals India.
Pakistan Ready to Shine on Home Soil
Speaking to Samaa TV, the former Pakistani batting maestro praised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for its dedication to hosting a successful ICC event. He lauded the board’s efforts in renovating stadiums across the country in record time, calling it a reflection of Pakistan’s commitment to improving the sport.
“I am very excited like any Pakistani. After 29 years, Pakistan is hosting an ICC event. Kudos to the PCB for the way they renovated all the stadiums in six months. If Pakistan reaches the final, they will play at home. I hope Pakistan cricket plays exactly the way the PCB has worked to prepare the stadiums,”
Yousuf stated
Pakistan last hosted an ICC event in 1996, when it co-hosted the Cricket World Cup alongside India and Sri Lanka. This year, with the Champions Trophy returning after an eight-year hiatus, Pakistan is eager to make a mark on home soil.
Yousuf: “New Zealand Are the Most Balanced Team”
While backing Pakistan to do well in home conditions, Muhammad Yousuf identified New Zealand and India as the two most well-rounded teams in the tournament. He particularly emphasized New Zealand’s ability to thrive in subcontinent conditions, citing their impressive squad depth across all departments.
“New Zealand looks like the most balanced side. They have a strong squad suited for the subcontinent conditions, with three quality fast bowlers and good spinners. Their top six is solid, their wicketkeeper is an all-rounder, and they have two spin-bowling all-rounders.”
New Zealand has historically performed well in ICC tournaments, and with players like Kane Williamson, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, and Ish Sodhi, they remain a major contender in the Champions Trophy.
Pakistan’s Edge Over India: Home Advantage Will Be Crucial
When discussing India’s squad, Yousuf acknowledged that the Men in Blue are a formidable side with a strong batting lineup, quality spin attack, and experienced pacers. However, he firmly believes Pakistan’s home advantage could tilt the scales in their favor.
“India, too, have a balanced side. But Pakistan has the edge because they are playing in home conditions. That said, they have to play calculated cricket throughout the tournament.”
Historically, Pakistan has performed well at home, especially on slower pitches that tend to favor their spin-heavy bowling attack. While India boasts world-class players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah, adapting to Pakistani conditions could be a challenge.
Lessons from Recent Performances: Yousuf’s Advice to Pakistan
Reflecting on Pakistan’s recent performances, particularly in ODIs and T20Is, Yousuf highlighted areas where the team needs improvement. He pointed out Pakistan’s struggles against spin bowling in middle overs, citing their failure to dominate New Zealand’s spinners in a recent tri-series final.
“We have played on turning wickets recently. Against quality spinners, we need to find the gaps, rotate the strike, and minimize dot balls. In the tri-series final against New Zealand, we failed to dominate their spinners in the middle overs. There are too many gaps with five fielders inside the 30-yard circle, and we must capitalize on that.”
His remarks indicate that Pakistan’s batting approach against spin could be a deciding factor in the tournament, especially against teams like India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, all of whom possess top-class spinners.
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule
Pakistan is placed in Group A alongside India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. Their Champions Trophy campaign kicks off on February 19, and they will be looking to start strong:
- February 19 – vs New Zealand in Karachi
- February 23 – vs India in Dubai
- March 2 – vs Bangladesh in Rawalpindi
If Pakistan qualifies for the knockout rounds, they will compete in the semifinals on March 4, with the final scheduled for March 9.
Can Pakistan Capitalize on Home Advantage?
As Pakistan embarks on this historic journey, Muhammad Yousuf’s confidence in the team reflects the nation’s high hopes. With a mix of experienced players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Shadab Khan, alongside young talents, Pakistan will aim to capitalize on home conditions and make a deep run in the tournament.
While New Zealand and India pose serious threats, Pakistan’s ability to adapt, play smart cricket, and handle pressure situations will determine their success. With home support behind them, they have a real opportunity to clinch the Champions Trophy for the first time since 2017.
One thing is certain—the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to deliver high-intensity cricket, and all eyes will be on Pakistan as they host the world’s best teams on their home soil. 🏏🔥
