WATCH: Biggest cricket names revel as Dubai skies are lit up ahead of massive IND vs PAK game

The day of the massive game between IND vs PAK is finally here as the two sides meet in the fifth match of the Champions Trophy 2025. This is also the fifth meeting of the two sides in this tournament after their last meeting in the 2017 finals. Some of the world’s biggest cricketing names were in attendance for a special night in Dubai. 

The International Cricket Council (ICC) posted a special video where Dubai skies could be seen illuminated. The likes of Dale Steyn, Ian Bishop, Robin Uthappa, and many more could be seen looking and enjoying the action in the sky with amazement. Fans are expected to attend the massive game in huge numbers on Sunday. 

Watch the video here - 

Dubai was lit up by @DP_World on the eve of the India-Pakistan #ChampionsTrophy match 🎆 pic.twitter.com/mH6hJ8Megc

— ICC (@ICC) February 23, 2025

It is a key game for Pakistan, as a loss will put an end to their journey in the tournament. The Men in Green have already lost their first match of the campaign to New Zealand. Rohit Sharma and his men have already played a game at this venue. India beat Bangladesh by six wickets to start their tournament on the right note. 

Mohammad Rizwan wins the toss and bats first 

There was a massive roar when Rohit and Rizwan came out for the toss. It was Pakistan who won the toss and chose to bat first. Fakhar Zaman’s injury on Wednesday meant that Imam Ul Haq was back into the playing XI, replacing the opening batter. Team India, on the other hand, went in with an unchanged XI. 

Speaking at the toss, Rizwan said, “Will bat first; it looks like a good surface. Want to put up a good target. Every match is important in ICC events; we will keep things normal. The boys are familiar with these conditions; we have done well here and we want to do our best today. We lost our last game, but it is past for us now.” 

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, who lost his 12th successive toss said, “Doesn't really matter; they won the toss so we'll bowl first. Looks similar to the last game; the surface is on the slower side. We have an experienced unit in batting so we know what we need to do if the pitches get slower. Need an overall performance from the team—with bat and ball. The last game wasn't an easy one for us, which is always nice. You want to be under pressure and test yourself.”