Pakistan will open CT 2025 on Feb 19 against New Zealand.
Pakistan will host its first ICC event in the Champions Trophy 2025 after 30 years, and ex-Pakistan captain Mohammad Yousuf wants the Men in Green to perform well, especially on home soil.
The Champions Trophy, which begins with Pakistan's match against New Zealand on Wednesday at Karachi's National Stadium, is a watershed moment for both the country and its cricketing future.
Yousuf lauded the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for its extraordinary work in rebuilding all venues in record time, stating that it demonstrated the board's commitment to improving the sport.
“I am very excited, like any Pakistani. After 29 years, Pakistan is hosting an ICC event. Kudos to the PCB for the way they renovated all the stadiums in six months. If Pakistan reaches the final, they will play at home. I hope Pakistan cricket plays exactly the way the PCB has worked to prepare the stadiums,” Yousuf told Samaa TV.
Despite the excitement surrounding the tournament, Yousuf is realistic about Pakistan's problems, citing New Zealand and India as the competition's two most balanced sides.
He emphasized New Zealand's prowess in subcontinent conditions, citing a strong top order, a well-rounded spin attack, and quality fast bowlers.
“New Zealand looks like the most balanced side. They have a good side as per the subcontinent conditions. They have three quality fast bowlers and good spinners. They have a solid top six in batting. The wicketkeeper is an all-rounder; they have two spin-bowling all-rounders," said Yousuf.
Despite India’s threat, Yousuf feels Pakistan has the advantage of playing on home turf, which could prove to be a crucial factor.
He said: “India, to have a balanced side. Pakistan have the edge because they are playing in home conditions. But they have to play calculated cricket in the tournament.”
Reflecting on Pakistan’s recent performances, Yousuf offered some valuable advice to the team.
“We have played on turning wickets recently. We need to play in the gaps against the spinners. Rotate the strike and play fewer dots. We got exposed in the tri-series final against New Zealand. We failed to dominate their spinners in the middle overs. There are too many gaps with five fielders in the 30-yard circle,” he added.
India and Pakistan will clash in Dubai on February 23 in the big ticket ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match.
(IANS inputs)