Dubai [UAE]: Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh believes that India holds an advantage in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, emphasizing that the team’s familiarity with Dubai’s pitches will give them an edge over Pakistan in their much-anticipated clash.
Speaking to media, Harbhajan said, “The hype is being created regarding the India-Pakistan match… The team that is going to adjust better with the pitch will get a better result… India has an advantage, it will play all its matches in Dubai so it will have an idea about the pitch and conditions. Overall, I feel the Indian team is better than the Pakistan team, and the result will be in favor of India…”
Bumrah’s Absence Opens Doors for Others
Harbhajan also addressed concerns regarding the absence of star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, stating that while no one can truly replace him, his absence presents a great opportunity for others like Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Shami to step up.
“When a player like Bumrah is not playing, someone else has to step up and take responsibility. No one can truly replace Bumrah, but his absence creates an opportunity for others to showcase their abilities. Players like Arshdeep and Shami have a chance to make an impact and prove themselves,” he added.
Backing Kohli and Rohit Amid Criticism
Despite recent criticism over their form, Harbhajan backed Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, stating that they still have the ability to win matches for India.
“Virat and Rohit haven’t scored as many runs as expected, given their past performances. The expectations are high, and when they fall short, criticism is natural. However, with the Champions Trophy ahead, they have a great opportunity to showcase their abilities and prove how they can still win matches for India. If they don’t succeed, naturally, the young players waiting in the wings will start getting more opportunities. But I still believe both have plenty of cricket left in them—they are highly capable players who can still score runs,” he told ANI.
Praise for Global Domestic Leagues
Harbhajan also praised the rise of domestic leagues worldwide, noting that allowing Indian players to participate could significantly boost these tournaments’ appeal.
“In every country, we see domestic leagues emerging, and a similar movement has started here as well. With matches being held in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah, many local players are getting a chance to showcase their talent, which is a positive development. Any league takes time to grow, and now in its third year, this league looks much stronger compared to the first. The potential is immense, especially with a large Indian and Asian-origin population passionate about cricket but lacking opportunities. If Indian players join, it will add to the league’s appeal,” he said.
He further added, “Right now, the presence of local players is limited, but if their participation increases from two to four or five, it will enhance the league’s competitiveness. For that to happen, local players need to develop further, and with Indian players coming in, the excitement will only grow.”
Champions Trophy Excitement Builds
The two-week competition will see the world’s top eight teams battle it out across 15 matches in 19 days, with every game being crucial in the race for the iconic white jackets.
Fans still have a chance to secure tickets for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 by purchasing them online or visiting physical ticket providers in Pakistan. Tickets for the final, scheduled for Sunday, March 9, will be available after the first semi-final in Dubai, as per the ICC.