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Former India pacer Atul Wassan gave a shocking statement where he wished for Pakistan to beat India in the fifth match of the Champions Trophy 2025 to be played at the Dubai International Stadium on February 23. Pakistan haven’t beaten India in ODIs since their famous victory in the Champions Trophy 2017 final at the iconic Oval. In their last 50-over meeting at the World Cup 2023, India claimed a seven-wicket win and recorded their eighth consecutive win against the Men in Green in the ODI World Cups. This tournament has witnessed Pakistan in trouble after their 60-run loss to New Zealand in the opening game in Karachi while India have looked comfortable after hammering Bangladesh by six wickets in Dubai.
Atul Wassan’s comment has taken Team India fans by surprise but former India stalwart believes Pakistan’s triumph in the high-octane game will make the competition intriguing. Talking to ANI, Wassan said, “I want Pakistan to win because it will be fun, tournament-wise. If you don't let Pakistan win, then what will you do? If Pakistan wins, then it becomes a contest. There should be an equal fight."
Wassan showed confidence in Team India's tactic
During the conversation, Atul Wassan also exuded confidence in Team India. He also commended India for their batting depth in the playing XI. He also supports Team India captain Rohit Sharma’s strategy of carrying five spinners for the tournament. "You have a lot of good batters: Shubman (Gill), Rohit (Sharma), Virat (Kohli). You are batting until number eight in Axar Patel. Rohit has picked five spinners, and this team is best for Dubai. Have faith in what you have and move ahead," added Wassan.
Both arch-rivals will confront each other at Dubai’s distinguished venue after four years again in an ICC event. Back in 2021, Pakistan claimed their maiden T20 World Cup win against India after bagging a 10-wicket triumph in the T20 World Cup 2021. Shaheen Shah Afridi was their Player of the Match (POTM) for his stunning 3/31 figures in his four-over spell.
