Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif says the real task for Pakistan is not just winning the ICC Champions Trophy but also defeat arch-rivals India in Dubai on February 23.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the renovated and upgraded Gaddafi stadium on Friday night, Sharif said the players must give their best against India.

Shehbaz Sharif’s comment on the upcoming India vs. Pakistan Champions Trophy clash has sparked a debate. Sharif’s remark raises question about the team’s priorities ahead of the ICC tournament. Pakistan and India will face each other in the group-stage on 23 February.

Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi says the selection committee 'will review' the national squad picked for the Champions Trophy even as he defended the controversial selections of batter Khushdil Shah and all-rounder Faheem Ashraf.

The highly anticipated clash will occur at Dubai International Stadium, as India has opted not to travel to Pakistan for the tournament.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the renovated Gaddafi Stadium on Friday night, Sharif said the players must give their best against India.

Pakistan PM Sharif stresses the importance of beating India in Dubai's upcoming cricket match. He calls on the team to excel in both the ICC Champions Trophy and against their arch-rivals.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has renovated three venues in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi for the Champions Trophy.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to begin on February 19, with Pakistan as the official host. However, Team India will play all its matches in Dubai. The 15-member Indian squad has been announced,