Sunday’s Champions Trophy clash in Dubai promises a charged atmosphere with strong fan presence on both sides.

India has refused to play its Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan, which is hosting its first major global tournament in almost 30 years.

Al Jazeera takes a close look as hosts Pakistan face rivals and favourites India in the Champions Trophy open on Sunday.

India are on a high after claiming a six-wicket win over Bangladesh, while Pakistan are evidently tense after the 60-run loss in the Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand

India, helmed by Rohit Sharma, have begun their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on a strong note, registering a comfortable six-wicket win over Bangladesh in their opening match in Dubai. Mohammed Shami and Shubman Gill were the standout performers as India cruised past their opponents by six wickets.

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto won the toss and Bangladesh decided to bat against India in their Group A match at the Champions Trophy on Thursday. India will be playing its group games and potential knockout matches in the United Arab Emirates after the Indian government prevented its team from traveling to Pakistan owing to past regional conflicts.

From thrilling chases to dominating performance, Indian batters have often stepped up against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy. India and Pakistan are all set to lock horns against each in the highly anticipated Champions Trophy 2025 clash at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday,

India kicked off their Champions Trophy campaign with a six-wicket victory against Bangladesh in a Group A match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday. Electing to bat, Bangladesh slumped to 35-5 but went on to post 228 all out riding Towhid Hridoy's heroic 100 while battling cramps.