‘I Want Pakistan to Win’: Atul Wassan’s Shocking Take on India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy 2025
The cricket world is buzzing as India prepares to face arch-rivals Pakistan in a high-stakes Champions Trophy 2025 Group A match today at Dubai International Stadium. While India comes off a strong win against Bangladesh, Pakistan is fighting to stay alive after a loss to New Zealand. But amidst the excitement, a surprising comment from former Indian cricketer Atul Wassan has grabbed headlines: he’s rooting for Pakistan to win.
“I want Pakistan to win. Maza aayega—it will be fun, tournament-wise,” Wassan told ANI. “If Pakistan wins, then it becomes a contest. There should be an equal fight.” His bold statement has shocked fans, especially with India favored to dominate the clash.
India, led by Rohit Sharma, kicked off their Champions Trophy campaign with a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh earlier this week in Dubai. A win today could all but secure their semifinal spot. Pakistan, on the other hand, is in a tough spot. The defending champions, captained by Mohammad Rizwan, suffered a 60-run defeat to New Zealand in Karachi on Wednesday. Another loss could end their title defense early.
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Pakistan’s woes deepened with the loss of star batsman Fakhar Zaman, who was ruled out of the tournament due to a muscle injury from the opener. Zaman’s absence stings—he scored a match-winning century against India in the 2017 Champions Trophy final, handing Pakistan their only title. Imam-ul-Haq has stepped in as his replacement, but the team faces an uphill battle.
Wassan, who played four Tests and nine ODIs for India in the 1990s, isn’t wishing for an Indian loss out of disloyalty. Instead, he believes a Pakistan victory would keep the tournament exciting. “If you don’t let Pakistan win, then what will you do?” he asked. With India having beaten Pakistan in five of their last six ODI meetings—most recently a seven-wicket win at the 2023 World Cup in Ahmedabad—a one-sided rivalry risks dulling the competition, he argues.
Wassan praised India’s squad, saying, “You have great batters like Rohit, Virat, and Shubman. You’re batting till number eight with Axar Patel. This team is perfect for Dubai.” Yet, he hopes Pakistan can rise to the challenge and make it a real contest.
India vs. Pakistan clashes are always blockbuster events, Pakistan leads the head-to-head in this tournament 3-2 But India has owned the rivalry lately, winning consistently since then. Today’s game at 2:30 PM IST (toss at 2:00 PM) promises drama, whether it’s a nail-biter or another Indian masterclass..
