The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is just around the corner, and the cricketing world is buzzing with excitement for the marquee clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan on February 23 in Dubai. However, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has poured cold water on the hype, calling the match “overhyped” and predicting a one-sided affair in favor of India.
In this article, we’ll explore Harbhajan’s bold take, analyze the reasons behind his prediction, and examine whether the India-Pakistan clash can live up to its billing.
Harbhajan’s Bold Claim: “India-Pakistan is Overhyped”
Harbhajan Singh, known for his no-nonsense opinions, didn’t hold back when discussing the upcoming India-Pakistan clash. On his YouTube channel, he stated, “This India-Pakistan game is an overhyped game because there is nothing in it. India is a very strong team. Pakistan is inconsistent. If you compare the numbers with the Indian team, the picture will become clear” .
What do you think of Harbhajan Singh's statement?
— NeatObserver (@NeatObserver) February 18, 2025
– India vs Pakistan is an overhyped game
– India looks stronger team & Pak looks raw team
– Apart from Babar & Rizwan, don't have anybody to step
I am fearing now because last time Bhajji made such a statement & we lost😟 pic.twitter.com/votABidUJH
He pointed to Pakistan’s recent struggles, including their losses to New Zealand in a home tri-series, as evidence of their inconsistency. Harbhajan also highlighted the stark difference in form between the two teams, with India coming off a dominant 3-0 ODI series win against England, while Pakistan faltered in their preparations .
Read more: Arshdeep Singh or Harshit Rana: Who Will Lead India’s Pace Attack in the Champions Trophy Opener?
Why Does Harbhajan Think India Will Dominate?
1. Superior Batting Lineup
Harbhajan emphasized the gulf in quality between India’s and Pakistan’s batting lineups. He noted that while Pakistan relies heavily on Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, their averages against India—31 and 25, respectively—are underwhelming for top-tier batters. In contrast, India’s top order, including Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli, is in stellar form .
2. Pakistan’s Lack of Depth
Beyond Babar and Rizwan, Pakistan’s batting lineup lacks firepower. Harbhajan singled out Fakhar Zaman as the only player capable of taking the game away from India, citing his impressive average of 46 against the Men in Blue. However, he dismissed other batters like Faheem Ashraf (average of 12.5) and Saud Shakeel (average of 8) as non-threatening .
3. India’s Bowling Strength
India’s bowling attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, is in top form. Harbhajan believes Pakistan’s inconsistent bowling unit, which struggled in the tri-series, won’t be able to contain India’s batters .
The Context: Recent India-Pakistan Encounters
Harbhajan’s prediction is backed by recent history. In the 2023 ODI World Cup, India thrashed Pakistan by 8 wickets, chasing down 191 with ease. Similarly, in the 2024 T20 World Cup, Pakistan failed to chase a modest target of 120, losing by 6 runs .
However, Pakistan holds a psychological edge in the Champions Trophy, having won three of their five encounters against India, including the 2017 final where they triumphed by 180 runs. Fakhar Zaman’s century in that match remains a standout performance .
Read more: Champions Trophy 2025: Will Varun Chakravarthy or Kuldeep Yadav Play in India’s First Match?
The Fan Perspective: Hype vs Reality
Despite Harbhajan’s skepticism, the India-Pakistan clash remains one of the most anticipated events in cricket. Tickets for the match sold out within hours, with prices skyrocketing due to the high demand .
For fans, the match is more than just a game—it’s an emotional battleground where national pride is at stake. The rivalry transcends cricket, making every encounter a spectacle, regardless of the teams’ form .
Can Pakistan Prove Harbhajan Wrong?
While Harbhajan’s assessment is harsh, Pakistan has the potential to spring a surprise. Fakhar Zaman’s ability to dominate India’s bowling and the leadership of Mohammad Rizwan could be game-changers. Additionally, Pakistan’s superior record in the Champions Trophy adds a layer of intrigue to the contest .
However, their inconsistent form and lack of depth in both batting and bowling make them underdogs heading into the match.
Harbhajan Singh’s dismissal of the India-Pakistan clash as “overhyped” has sparked a heated debate. While his analysis highlights India’s clear advantage, cricket is a game of uncertainties, and Pakistan’s history of defying odds cannot be ignored.
As fans gear up for the high-voltage encounter, one thing is certain: the India-Pakistan clash will continue to captivate the cricketing world, whether it’s a one-sided affair or a nail-biting thriller.
So, do you agree with Harbhajan’s prediction, or do you think Pakistan can turn the tables? Let us know in the comments below!
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