India vs Pakistan: Just Another Game, Says India Batsman Shubman Gill

DUBAI, Feb 22, 2025 (BSS/AFP) – India vice-captain Shubman Gill downplayed the significance of the highly anticipated India-Pakistan clash in the Champions Trophy, describing it as just another match for his team despite the fan fervor surrounding it.

The two arch-rivals will meet in Dubai on Sunday, with the match expected to draw a massive crowd, as both nations only face off in multi-nation tournaments due to political tensions. India declined to travel to Pakistan for the 50-over tournament, opting instead to play all their matches at the Dubai International Stadium, which has a capacity of 25,000.

Gill, who played a pivotal role in India’s win against Bangladesh in the opening game, scoring an unbeaten 101, stated that the team’s focus remains the same regardless of the opponent.

“It doesn’t change anything for us honestly,” said Gill about facing Pakistan. “We play every match to win, and this is no different for us. This is how we prepare for every match, and that’s how we are going to approach this one as well.”

The India-Pakistan contest consistently attracts millions of viewers worldwide, with TV ratings soaring as fans flock to watch the highly charged match-up, generating massive revenue for broadcasters. Streets in both India and Pakistan go empty when the two teams meet, and Gill acknowledged the excitement among the fans, adding, “There’s a long history between India and Pakistan, and it’s always an exciting contest.”

“Everyone enjoys watching it. If so many people are getting happiness from watching this match, then who are we to say whether it’s under-hyped or over-hyped?” he continued. “We just go out there to play cricket, represent our country, and try our best to win.”

The two teams last met in a one-day game at the 2023 World Cup in Ahmedabad, where India triumphed by seven wickets.

India’s victory in this match would bring them closer to a semi-final spot, while Pakistan, having lost their opening game to New Zealand, is now playing for survival in the tournament. New Zealand currently leads Group A ahead of India based on run-rate, with Pakistan at the bottom of the group.

The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semi-finals.

When asked about the magnitude of the game, Gill acknowledged its importance but remained focused on the bigger picture. “I think it is a big match, but the biggest match will always be the finals. We’ve been playing some good ODI cricket,” he said.

Gill also highlighted the strength of the Pakistan team, despite their recent struggles. “Pakistan has unfortunately lost some matches recently, but we are not going to take them lightly. They have a good side, and it’s important for us to bring our A-game tomorrow,” he added.

Gill has been in exceptional form in the 50-over format, having scored his second consecutive century on Thursday after playing a key role in India‘s recent 3-0 sweep of England.

Rishabh Pant, the backup wicketkeeper, did not participate in the final practice session before the match against Pakistan, with Gill confirming that he is suffering from “viral fever.”