AB de Villiers predicts the winner of India vs Pakistan clash in Champions Trophy 2025

Cricket fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating one of the biggest matches of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, as arch-rivals India and Pakistan face off on Sunday in Dubai. The high-voltage encounter promises to be an exciting battle, with Pakistan aiming to bounce back after a shaky start to the tournament. As the defending champions and the official hosts of the event, Pakistan will look to make a strong statement. Meanwhile, India, who began their campaign with a dominant win over Bangladesh, will be keen to continue their winning momentum.

AB de Villiers names the winner of India-Pakistan clash

Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers has weighed in on the much-anticipated clash, predicting India as the favourites to win against Pakistan. Sharing his thoughts in a video on Instagram, De Villiers backed the Indian side due to their balanced squad.

“Pakistan team is the host team, but the Indian team is the favourite to win this match. I will go with India,” said De Villiers.

While acknowledging Pakistan’s capabilities, he emphasized that India has the edge in terms of both batting and bowling depth. De Villiers also explained why India has the upper hand.

“I am considering India as the favourite in this match because the team has great batsmen and bowlers. The all-rounders are also amazing. There are many great players in the team. I am considering India as the favourite in this match,” added De Villiers.

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De Villiers on India and Pakistan’s strengths

Discussing the strengths of both teams, De Villiers highlighted Pakistan’s potential to turn the game in their favor with their pace attack, but also pointed out India’s overall superiority.

“There is going to be a great match between India and Pakistan on Sunday. Pakistan is going to face India in Dubai. Pakistan’s team would like to enter the match with confidence. Pakistan is the defending champion of the Champions Trophy. Pak is the host team of the tournament. I am hoping that Pakistan will show its best game in this match. Will Pakistan’s pace attack be able to stop the Indian batsmen? It is going to be very interesting to see,” De Villiers explained.

He also acknowledged Pakistan’s unpredictability and talent, making the match an exciting contest. However, he noted that even without Jasprit Bumrah, India has enough firepower in their bowling attack to pose a serious challenge.

“Pakistan is a talented team. There is no doubt about it. In such a situation, it is expected that this match will be high voltage. On the other hand, the Indian team is definitely going to miss Jasprit Bumrah in this match. But even after this, the team has great bowlers. India still has quality fast bowling,” the former Proteas captain added.