Shaheen Afridi Brings Back Trauma of 2021 T20 World Cup After Dismissing Rohit Sharma With a Ripper in Champions Trophy 2025

Rohit departed after scoring 20 runs off 15 balls with the help of three fours and one six.

India vs Pakistan: Champions Trophy 2025: Match Recap and Updates

India and Pakistan faced off in an intense Champions Trophy 2025 Group-A encounter, where India began their chase of 241 with a strong performance. Here are the key moments from the match:

Rohit Sharma’s Explosive Start Cut Short

• Rohit Sharma’s Quick Fire:
  • Rohit Sharma got India off to a fiery start in their chase, smashing three boundaries and one six.
  • He managed to score 20 runs off 15 balls, forming a 31-run partnership for the first wicket with Shubman Gill.
• Shaheen Afridi’s Key Breakthrough:
  • Shaheen Shah Afridi produced a stunning inswinging yorker to dismiss Rohit, replicating his similar delivery from the 2021 T20 World Cup, where he trapped Rohit LBW for a duck.
  • Pakistan’s speedster gave them the opening breakthrough and dismissed Rohit at a crucial moment.

India’s Bowlers Dominate Pakistan’s Innings

• Pakistan Restricted to 241:
  • The Indian bowlers put up a dominant display, restricting Pakistan to 241 runs in 49.4 overs.
• Babar Azam’s Struggles:
  • Babar Azam failed to make a significant contribution, scoring only 23 runs off 26 balls.
• Strong Partnership Between Rizwan and Shakeel:
  • The 104-run stand between Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan was pivotal in helping Pakistan reach a competitive total.
• Kuldeep Yadav Shines with the Ball:
  • Kuldeep Yadav was the standout bowler, claiming three wickets and leading India’s attack.
  • Hardik Pandya also played a crucial role, taking two wickets and keeping the pressure on Pakistan.

India in Control of the Chase

• India’s Response in the Chase:
  • At the time of writing, India was in a strong position, with the score at 119/2 in 22.1 overs.
  • Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer were at the crease, looking comfortable and building a steady partnership.
• India’s semi-final hopes:
  • A win in this match will almost guarantee India a place in the semifinals, keeping their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on track.
  • On the other hand, Pakistan faces the possibility of early elimination if they fail to win this crucial encounter.

India’s clinical performance with the ball and a steady chase puts them firmly in control as they aim to secure an important victory in their bid for the Champions Trophy semi-finals.