The Indian team is looking to prepare for the Champions Trophy by performing well in the limited-overs series against England. India had faced defeat in the final of the tournament in 2017 against Pakistan. Experienced all-rounder Hardik Pandya was also part of the team at that time, and he will represent the team again in the Champions Trophy. Hardik is confident that the players will be eager to bring the trophy home this time.
Hardik Becomes India’s Third Most Successful T20 Bowler
Hardik Pandya is currently playing in the five-match T20 series against England. In the first match, which took place at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, India won by seven wickets. Hardik impressed with the ball, taking two wickets and becoming India’s third most successful bowler in T20 internationals.
Arshdeep Singh surpasses Yuzvendra Chahal, while Hardik Pandya overtakes Bhuvneshwar Kumar to secure third place in the chart of most wickets for India in T20Is pic.twitter.com/yqAzUCQbMm
— CricTracker (@Cricketracker) January 23, 2025
India’s Champions Trophy Matches to Be Played in Dubai
The Champions Trophy will start on February 19, hosted by Pakistan. However, India refused to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns, so all of their matches will take place in Dubai. To address India’s concerns, the ICC decided to hold the tournament in a hybrid format. India has won this title once, in 2013, and shared it with Sri Lanka in 2002.
Hardik Pandya Talks About the Champions Trophy’s Return
Hardik Pandya believes the return of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy will bring a big boost to cricket. He thinks the tournament will make the ODI format more exciting and relevant. Hardik said that it would ignite excitement for both players and fans. The Indian team is eager to bring the trophy back home and show their cricket skills.
First W of the year 🇮🇳❤️ See you on Saturday pic.twitter.com/WTmA9H1uZx
— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) January 22, 2025
Tournament Schedule and Group Matches
The opening match will be played between Pakistan and New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi. India will start their campaign against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20. India is in Group A and will play Pakistan in their next match on February 23 in Dubai.