The ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 is approaching swiftly. This eight-team tournament is set to commence on February 19, featuring an opening match between the reigning champions, Pakistan, and New Zealand. Under the captaincy of Sarfaraz Ahmed, Pakistan triumphed over India in the final of the 2017 Champions Trophy held at The Oval in London. Recently, former captain Sarfaraz has recounted the story behind a photograph of his then three-month-old son, Abdullah, with MS Dhoni prior to the 2017 final.

In the days leading up to the 2017 Champions Trophy final, MS Dhoni was photographed holding Sarfaraz Ahmed's infant son. Sarfaraz disclosed that Dhoni expressed a desire to capture a moment with his son, seizing what he believed to be the ideal opportunity.

"The moment occurred when family friends were visiting, and Dhoni happened to come downstairs. He felt it was the perfect chance to take a picture with my three-month-old son," Sarfaraz shared with Cricket Pakistan.

Additionally, Sarfaraz Ahmed elaborated on the insights he has gained from Dhoni over the years. He mentioned that he has engaged in numerous discussions with Dhoni concerning wicketkeeping and the sport in general.

"I had an extensive conversation with Dhoni about wicketkeeping and cricket overall. I inquired how he managed to juggle his responsibilities as a wicketkeeper, batsman, and captain. The advice Dhoni provided was incredibly beneficial. He was very humble and generous in sharing his knowledge," Sarfaraz remarked.

Players from India and Pakistan have mutual respect

India and Pakistan are set to compete in the 2025 Champions Trophy on February 23 in Dubai. In the days leading up to this match, Sarfaraz emphasized the mutual respect that exists among players from both nations.

He noted, "Although the absence of bilateral series has somewhat limited interactions, the matches that do occur, particularly consecutive ones, have fostered better relations."

Sarfaraz further remarked, "Whenever players from India and Pakistan come together, there is a prevailing sense of respect and camaraderie. It is not unusual to witness players such as Shoaib Malik, Yuvraj Singh, Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, and others socializing and enjoying each other's company after the matches."

In the Champions Trophy, India, Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh comprise Group A, while Group B includes England, Australia, South Africa, and Afghanistan.

India's inaugural match in the tournament will take place on February 20 against Bangladesh in Dubai.

Read Also: Raina Shares How the Iconic Rohit-Dhawan Duo Came to Life in the 2013 Champions Trophy

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