With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 around the corner, former wicketkeeper-batter Moin Khan has urged Pakistan players not to get friendly with their Indian counterparts on the field.

The two arch-rivals are slated to square off in the showpiece tournament on February 23 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Speaking on podcast hosted by actor Ushna Shah, Moin said the players should respect the opposition but should not cross the professional lines.

“I just don't get it when I watch Pakistan and India matches these days, as Indian players come into the crease our players check their bats, pat them, have a friendly talk and,” Moin stated.

Moin, who was part of many on-field battles with India, clarified that he was not against having respect for opposition players but being too friendly with them could result in losing respect.

“Our seniors always told us that when playing against India give no quarter and no need to even talk to them on the field. When you get friendly, they see it as a sign of weakness,” he added.

Moin Khan, 53, admitted that he had immense respect for some of the Indian players of his generation but never expressed it on the field.

“Nowadays, our players' behaviour when playing against India is unfathomable to me. Even off the field as professionals you have to have certain boundaries.”

“I think our players don't understand this but being too friendly is seen as a sign of weakness on the field and you automatically come under pressure in your performances.”

Moin acknowledged that not being able to beat India in a World Cup match remained one of the biggest regrets of players from his time. He also opined that Pakistan and India are among the favourites to do well in the upcoming Champions Trophy.

(With PTI Inputs)