India Triumphs Over Pakistan in Champions Trophy 2025: Key Performances from IPL Captains
India and Pakistan once again delivered a high-voltage clash in the Champions Trophy 2025, but this time, the Men in Blue dominated the contest. India comfortably chased down a target of 242, winning by six wickets. The victory not only strengthened India’s position for the semi-finals but also put Pakistan in a precarious situation, facing the risk of elimination.
Several Indian players stepped up in this crucial encounter, with Virat Kohli leading the charge with a century. However, another interesting aspect of the match was the performance of IPL captains, many of whom played key roles in India’s win. Let’s take a look at how these leaders fared under pressure.
Hardik Pandya (Mumbai Indians) – The Game Changer
Hardik Pandya, the skipper of Mumbai Indians, proved his worth in big games once again. Pakistan started the innings on a strong note, scoring 41 runs in quick time. Just when they looked set for a big total, it was Pandya who turned the game around.
He struck a major blow by dismissing Babar Azam, who was looking in sublime touch. Later, he came back to take the wicket of Saud Shakeel, the top scorer for Pakistan. If Shakeel had continued for a few more overs, Pakistan could have posted a total close to 300, making things trickier for India.
Hardik’s spell of 2 wickets for 31 runs in eight overs was instrumental in restricting Pakistan to a modest total, setting up India’s comfortable chase.
Shreyas Iyer (Punjab Kings) – The Calm Finisher
Shreyas Iyer, the newly appointed Punjab Kings captain, played a vital role in India’s chase. Scoring 56 off 67 balls, he provided stability to the innings after the dismissal of Shubman Gill.
With Kohli at the other end, Iyer ensured there were no hiccups and batted with controlled aggression. His innings included five boundaries and a six, allowing India to maintain the momentum built by the openers.
Had Iyer lost his wicket early, the game could have gotten tricky for India, but his composed knock kept Pakistan out of the contest.
Shubman Gill (Gujarat Titans) – The Confident Opener
Shubman Gill, the Gujarat Titans skipper, carried his superb form into this high-pressure match. He took on Pakistan’s formidable pace attack, attacking Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf with ease.
His fluent stroke play put Pakistan on the back foot early, ensuring India’s middle order had no pressure while chasing the target. Gill’s innings of 41 runs included seven boundaries, all of which came against Afridi, negating Pakistan’s best bowler and shifting the momentum in India’s favor.
Axar Patel (Delhi Capitals) – The All-Round Performer
Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel also made a notable contribution in the game. While he only picked up one wicket, it was a crucial one—Mohammad Rizwan, who was looking dangerous.
Apart from his bowling, Axar displayed brilliance in the field, executing two run-outs that further dented Pakistan’s chances of reaching a competitive total. His all-round performance ensured that India remained in control throughout the game.
Conclusion: IPL Captains Shine in High-Stakes Battle
India’s victory over Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025 was a result of collective team effort, but the impact of IPL captains in the game was undeniable. Hardik Pandya’s crucial wickets, Shreyas Iyer’s composed knock, Shubman Gill’s aggressive start, and Axar Patel’s all-round display all played a part in India’s commanding win.
With the IPL season around the corner, these performances will only add to the excitement, as fans eagerly wait to see how these leaders carry their form into the marquee tournament.(Dubai7-Realmoneygame)