Pakistan’s fast bowler Haris Rauf has emphasized that the team is under no pressure ahead of their highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match against India. Rauf assured reporters that the squad is staying composed, focusing on improving their performance and learning from the mistakes made in their previous outing.
Speaking to the media in Dubai, Rauf acknowledged the importance of the upcoming clash but stressed that the focus is on rectifying the errors made in Pakistan’s opening game against New Zealand. “Our focus is entirely on the match against India. It is a do-or-die situation for us if we want to stay in the tournament,” Rauf said. “We will try our best to secure a win and qualify for the semi-finals.”
Despite the pressure of the high-stakes match, the right-arm pacer maintained a calm and relaxed tone, insisting that the team is composed and in good spirits. “There is no pressure on us; we are very relaxed. The entire squad is positive and determined to give their best performance in all three departments,” he added.
Rauf, who bowled his full quota of 10 overs in Pakistan’s opening defeat to New Zealand, also addressed concerns over his fitness, stating that he feels fully fit. “I bowled 10 overs in the last match and feel completely fit,” he reassured fans and reporters.
Looking back at Pakistan’s previous encounters with India in Dubai, Rauf expressed confidence that the team can replicate their past successes. “We will aim to play the same kind of cricket as we did when we defeated India in the last two encounters here. The boys are confident, and we hope to deliver a good match,” he said.
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy campaign began on a disappointing note, as they suffered a 60-run defeat to New Zealand on February 19 at the National Bank Cricket Stadium in Karachi. Set a target of 321 runs, Pakistan was bowled out for 260 in 47.2 overs, falling short despite a solid start.
New Zealand had posted a formidable total of 320 for five, thanks to centuries from Will Young and Tom Latham. Pakistan’s chase was hampered by a disciplined Kiwi bowling attack, with the side unable to build any substantial partnerships to mount a challenge.
The Pakistan-India clash on Sunday, February 23, is set to be a crucial match for both teams, with each eyeing a much-needed win to boost their prospects in the tournament.
