The India and Pakistan rivalry has been a great contest on the cricket field, marked by intense competition, high stakes, and passionate fan engagement. This historic rivalry extends beyond just the game, often representing the shared and tumultuous history of the two nations. Every match between these cricketing giants draws millions of viewers worldwide, becoming a spectacle that transcends the boundaries of sport.
The rivalry has witnessed iconic encounters in World Cups to nail-biting finishes in Champions Trophy. India’s dominance in ICC events, such as their unbeaten streak against Pakistan in the World Cup, contrasts with Pakistan’s memorable victories, including their emphatic win in the 2017 Champions Trophy final. It’s a celebration of cricket at its best, where every ball, run, and wicket carries the weight of national pride.
Here’s the strongest combined playing XI from the current squads of India and Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025:
1: Rohit Sharma (C)
Indian captain and opener Rohit Sharma will be a part of the India-Pakistan combine playing XI. His incredible ability to play big innings under pressure makes him an x-factor for the side. He is a calm and tactical leader, perfect for handling high-pressure games. The right-handed batter has exceptional records and stats in ICC tournaments for the Indian Cricket Team.
As of now, Rohit Sharma has scored a total of 10,866 runs with an average of 49.16, including 31 centuries and 57 fifties in ODIs.
2: Babar Azam
Former Pakistan captain and top-order batter Babar Azam would also be a part of the combined ODI playing XI. He is a technically sound player who anchors the innings with ease and is reliable in building partnerships and performing in pressure situations. He is one of the most consistent batsmen in the world and is ranked among the top ODI batsmen globally.
As of now, Babar Azam has managed to score 5,957 runs with an average of 56,73, including 19 centuries and 34 fifties.
3: Virat Kohli
Indian middle-order batter Virat Kohli is one of the greatest players in cricket history to have played the ODI format. He is a fearless batsman with the hunger to dominate any bowling attack who thrives in high-stakes matches. Virat Kohli is known for consistently delivering match-winning performances in ICC events.
As of now, Virat Kohli has a total of 13,906 runs to his name with an average of 58.18, including 50 centuries and 72 fifties.
4: Shreyas Iyer
Indian middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer has been a consistent player for the men in blue in the ODI format for a long time. He provided valuable contributions to the team in the 2023 Asia Cup and ICC World Cup. Shreyas Iyer can become a crucial asset for a team due to his match-winning and pressure-soaking abilities.
As of now, Shreyas Iyer has been able to score a total of 2,421 runs with an average of 47.47, including 5 centuries and 18 fifties.
5: Mohammad Rizwan
Pakistan wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan fins his name in this combined playing XI for India and Pakistan. He is a dependable middle-order batsman who excels in rotating the strike and consistently delivers in crunch moments. His excellent glovework behind the stumps and the ability to soak pressure make him a key player for the side.
As of now, Mohammad Rizwan has scored a total of 2,352 runs with an average of 41.26, including 3 centuries and 15 fifties.
6: Hardik Pandya
Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been a great asset for the Indian side for his valuable contributions in both batting and bowling. He is a hard-hitter who can change the course of a game in a few overs. His experience of winning games single-handedly adds valuable balance to the team.
As of now, Hardik Pandya has scored 1769 runs and has taken 84 wickets for the Indian side in the 50-over format.
7: Shadab Khan
Leg-spin bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan has been a crucial player for the Pakistan cricket team in recent times. He is a crafty leg-spinner who provides crucial breakthroughs and is also capable of quick runs lower down the order. Shadab also contributes his best in the field, making him one of the best fielders in the current Pakistani side.
As of now, Shadab Khan has 855 runs and 85 wickets for the Pakistan side to his name.
8: Kuldeep Yadav
Left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav is a great spin bowling option who has been impactful for the Indian side in the ODI format. He is a proven matchwinner in subcontinental and overseas conditions, with the ability to outfox batsmen with flight and turn.
As of now, Kuldeep Yadav has taken 172 wickets for the Indian side with an economy of just 4.99.
9: Shaheen Shah Afridi
Left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi is a deadly pacer with the new ball, known for swinging it both ways. The seamer has the ability to deliver lethal yorkers and accurate death bowling. For Pakistan, Shaheen has been a proven matchwinner by becoming player of the match in several high-profile games in ICC tournaments.
As of now, Shaheen Shah Afridi has taken 119 wickets for Pakistan Cricket Team with an economy of 5.49.
10: Jasprit Bumrah
India’s iconic fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is one of the most feared bowlers in world cricket. He is known for stepping up in big matches and handling pressure well. Bumrah is an exceptional bowler who can bowl in all phases: powerplay, middle overs, and death.
As of now, Jasprit Bumrah has taken a total of 149 wickets with an economy of 4.59 for the Indian side.
11: Mohammed Shami
Right-arm fast bowler Mohammed Shami is an experienced pacer known for his ability to swing the ball at high speeds. He is deadly with the new ball, often breaking crucial partnerships early. His exceptional skill at reversing the old ball makes him effective in the middle and death overs.
As of now, Mohammed Shami has clinched a total of 195 wickets for the men in blue with an economy of 5.55.
