ISLAMABAD: Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has shared his predictions for the Champions Trophy 2025, set to be held in Pakistan in February-March.
The tournament will commence with defending champions Pakistan facing off against New Zealand on February 19 at the National Stadium in Karachi. Notably, the much-anticipated clash between arch-rivals Pakistan and India is slated for February 23 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, as India has declined to send its team to Pakistan for the event.
Singh has identified his top four semi-finalists for the upcoming tournament. The seasoned cricketer has named India and Australia, Pakistan and New Zealand as his picks for the semi-finals.
Expressing his thoughts in an interview, Harbhajan Singh emphasised the competitive prowess of these four teams, highlighting Pakistan’s strong presence in such high-stakes competitions.
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Furthermore, Harbhajan Singh weighed in on the inclusion of opening batter Yashasvi Jaiswal in the Indian squad for the Champions Trophy 2025, despite his lack of experience in One Day Internationals.
He praised Jaiswal’s current form and suggested that his inclusion in the playing XI would bolster India’s lineup, particularly due to his ability to play freely and under little pressure at the top of the order.”
Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule:
February 19: Pakistan versus New Zealand, Karachi
February 20: Bangladesh versus India, Dubai
February 21: Afghanistan versus South Africa, Karachi
February 22: Australia versus England, Lahore
February 23: Pakistan versus India, Dubai
February 24: Bangladesh versus New Zealand, Rawalpindi
February 25: Australia versus South Africa, Rawalpindi
February 26: Afghanistan versus England, Lahore
February 27: Pakistan versus Bangladesh, Rawalpindi
February 28: Afghanistan versus Australia, Lahore
March 1: South Africa versus England, Karachi
March 2: New Zealand versus India, Dubai
March 4: Semi-final 1, Dubai
March 5: Semi-final 2, Lahore
March 9: Final, Lahore (unless India qualifies, then it will be played in Dubai)
March 10: Reserve Day
