Synopsis
Ahead of the crucial Champions Trophy match against Pakistan, Hardik Pandya emphasizes India's quest for glory. The team, led by Rohit Sharma, aims to secure a semi-final spot, bolstered by recent victories and a strong track record against Pakistan in ODIs.Key Takeaways
- Hardik Pandya expresses confidence in India's journey.
- Upcoming clash against Pakistan in Champions Trophy.
- India aims for a semi-final spot after defeating Bangladesh.
- India remains unbeaten against Pakistan in six ODIs since 2018.
- Historic head-to-head record in Champions Trophy favors Pakistan.
Dubai, Feb 23 (NationPress) Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya expressed that the Men in Blue are ready to challenge another rival in their journey to reclaim the title as they gear up for the crucial match against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy on Sunday.
The team, led by Rohit Sharma, will clash with Pakistan in their second Group A match at the Dubai International Stadium, aiming to secure a spot in the semi-finals of the eight-team tournament.
India emerged victorious against Bangladesh by six wickets in their opening game, while the squad led by Mohammad Rizwan experienced a defeat against New Zealand in the tournament's first match in Karachi.
In a video posted on the BCCI website, Pandya expressed his determination to reach new heights this year by clinching another Champions Trophy title.
"They said life had come full circle for me. They said from this point on, there was no turning back. I had won them back. A new year, a new tournament, and a new challenge are upon us. Our journey to become champions again has commenced. Today, we step out anew. To conquer yet another day and another opponent. Chapter 2 of the Champions Trophy is here. Prepare yourselves and buckle up for a match that needs no introduction. We are ready. Are you?" stated Pandya in the video.
India has remained unbeaten against Pakistan in their last six ODIs since 2018. Their last encounter in the format was in 2017 when they lost the Champions Trophy final at The Oval.
The two teams last met in the ODI during the 2023 World Cup in Ahmedabad, where the hosts secured a commanding seven-wicket victory, maintaining their unbeaten streak against Pakistan in the tournament.
Historically in Champions Trophy encounters, India and Pakistan have faced each other five times since 2004. Their latest meeting occurred in the 2017 final, where Pakistan triumphed by 180 runs. Currently, India trails Pakistan 2-3 in their head-to-head record in the tournament.
