Pandya’s strategy was clever. After seeing Babar’s aggressive play, he adjusted his length and bowled a ball just outside the off-stump in the ninth over. While the pitch offered little movement, it was enough to tempt Babar into playing a cover drive.

Babar began the game very well, timing his strokes excellently. His early boundaries like a marked improvement compared to the previous game against New Zealand. Bowling the ninth over, Pandya was slammed for a glorious cover drive by Babar.

While Rohit Sharma and co began their campaign with a comfortable six-wicket win over Bangladesh, Pakistan faced a big 60-run defeat in their opening game against New Zealand in Karachi. The Mohammad Rizwan-led side is expected to make certain changes in their Playing XI for the match highly anticipated match against India.

A touching moment unfolded between Virat Kohli and Babar Azam during the Champions Trophy 2025 match in Dubai on Sunday.

Hardik Pandya dismissed Babar Azam early and gave the Pakistan batter a send-off during the Champions Trophy clash in Dubai.

The blockbuster India vs Pakistan clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai witnessed Hardik Pandya playing a key role in setting the tone early on. The Indian all-rounder not only picked up the crucial wicket of Pakistan batter Babar Azam but also gestured a sarcastic 'bye-bye' send-off.