Cricket enthusiasts are expected to be captivated by their screens as India faces off against their long-standing rivals, Pakistan, in the forthcoming Champions Trophy match scheduled for Sunday in Dubai. This encounter promises to be a thrilling spectacle, further intensified by the surrounding political tensions, which have necessitated India playing all their matches in Dubai. (IND vs PAK LIVE SCORE)

Rohit Sharma and his team commenced their tournament with a victory, positioning themselves in second place within Group A. The match featured a significant decision from Gautam Gambhir, as KL Rahul assumed the primary wicketkeeper role, resulting in the sidelining of the popular Rishabh Pant. Additionally, the head coach of the Indian team has indicated that Pant will have to await his opportunity to return to the lineup.

‘Sorry situation’: Sanjay Manjrekar

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar, while analyzing the situation, expressed his belief that Rahul would maintain his position in the playing XI and conveyed his sympathy for Pant.

In an interview with JioCinema, he remarked, “India performed quite well against Bangladesh, addressing most of the necessary aspects. I do not anticipate significant changes unless the pitch conditions require it. Kuldeep (Yadav) could benefit from additional match experience. Since Rahul scored some runs, I doubt any new wicketkeeper-batter will displace him.”

“While Rahul continues to contribute, Pant will remain sidelined, but he is an exceptional talent for India. It is unfortunate for him,” he continued.

Additionally, Pant missed a training session prior to the forthcoming match, with Gill explaining that the wicketkeeper-batter is currently suffering from viral fever.

On the other hand, Pakistan faces the risk of elimination. After starting their tournament with a loss to New Zealand, they require a remarkable turnaround and must defeat India to revive their campaign. Currently, they sit at the bottom of Group A, trailing behind third-placed Bangladesh. India has triumphed in their last 11 completed ODIs against Pakistan, which could serve as a significant motivational factor for Rohit Sharma and his team.

Pakistan will also depend on their pace attack to challenge the Indian batting lineup and will hope that Babar Azam and Rizwan can regain their form.

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