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Gautam Gambhir Downplays Hype Around India-Pakistan Clash in ICC Champions Trophy 2025
India‘s head coach Gautam Gambhir has downplayed the growing anticipation surrounding their high-profile clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on February 23 in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Speaking at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) annual awards, Gambhir emphasized that the Indian team is not focusing solely on one match but rather on winning the Champions Trophy as a whole.
🗣 “Look, we don’t go to the Champions Trophy thinking that the 23rd is the most important game for us. I think five games, all the games are important,” Gambhir said.
Focus on the Bigger Picture: Champions Trophy Glory
Gambhir underscored that the mission for India is not just to win against Pakistan, but to secure the Champions Trophy 2025 title. While acknowledging the intensity and emotions surrounding India-Pakistan matches, he remained focused on the broader challenge.
🗣 “The mission to go to Dubai is to win the Champions Trophy, not only win one particular game. But yes, if that is one game in the middle of winning the Champions Trophy, we’re going to try and take it as seriously as possible.”
The Challenge of the Champions Trophy
The Champions Trophy brings a different level of intensity compared to the 50-over World Cup, as every match is crucial. Gambhir stressed the importance of starting well and treating every game as a make-or-break encounter in the tournament.
🗣 “Champions Trophy is a completely different challenge as compared to the 50-over World Cup because literally every game is a make-or-break, so you can’t stop anywhere in this tournament,” he noted.
Rohit Sharma & Virat Kohli: Key Players for India
Despite a tough run of form in recent series, Gambhir expressed confidence in the leadership of Rohit Sharma and the batting prowess of Virat Kohli. He believes their experience and hunger for success will be crucial for India’s campaign.
🗣 “Both Rohit and Virat, they add so much value to the dressing room. They add so much value to Indian cricket as well. They’ve got to play a massive role (in the Champions Trophy),” Gambhir said.
India’s Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule
- February 20: India vs Bangladesh (Dubai)
- February 23: India vs Pakistan (Dubai)
- March 2: India vs New Zealand (Dubai)
Gambhir’s Confidence for India’s Success
With a determined mindset, Gambhir remains confident that India’s senior players will rise to the occasion in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. His focus is on winning all matches in the tournament, with the Pakistan clash seen as part of a bigger journey to victory.
Do you think India’s broader approach will give them the edge, or is the Pakistan match the key to their success? 🏆
