Pak vs Ind: India's expected playing XI against Pakistan

India is expected to make a solitary change in their playing XI for the much-anticipated Champions Trophy 2025 encounter against Pakistan, scheduled to take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, February 23.

According to team sources, 33-year-old mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy is likely to replace left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who went wicketless in India’s tournament opener against Bangladesh on February 20. Kuldeep, despite having an impressive record of 12 wickets in six ODIs against Pakistan, struggled in the opening game, conceding 43 runs in his 10-over spell.

Chakaravarthy, who made his ODI debut against England in Cuttack earlier this month, has impressed with his variations, making him a strong contender for a spot in the starting lineup. His inclusion is seen as a tactical move, considering Pakistan’s recent struggles against spin in their opening fixture against New Zealand in Karachi.

Barring any injury concerns, India is expected to retain the rest of the squad. The team will rely heavily on the in-form Shubman Gill, the world's top-ranked ODI batter, who has struck centuries in his last two appearances. A third consecutive hundred in the high-voltage clash would mark a rare feat for the 25-year-old Punjab batter.

Captain Rohit Sharma, who boasts 873 runs in 19 ODIs against Pakistan, and Virat Kohli, with 678 runs in 16 matches, will also be crucial to India’s batting fortunes.

On the bowling front, veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, fresh off a five-wicket haul against Bangladesh, will spearhead the attack. Young fast bowler Harshit Rana, who picked up three wickets in his Champions Trophy debut, is expected to retain his place.