Babar Azam’s Major Setback Ahead of Champions Trophy 2025

With the Champions Trophy 2025 just around the corner, teams are in the final phase of their preparations for the much-anticipated tournament. This edition of the Champions Trophy follows a unique hybrid model, with matches being hosted in Pakistan and Dubai— the latter serving as the venue for all of India’s games.

Cricket fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the high-voltage clash between India and Pakistan, as the two arch-rivals prepare to face off for the first time since the 2024 T20 World Cup. As the host nation, Pakistan carries high expectations, and much of the responsibility will rest on the shoulders of Babar Azam, one of the team’s most crucial players. The last time Pakistan lifted an ICC trophy was in the 2017 Champions Trophy, and fans are hopeful for a repeat performance.

However, just days before the tournament kicks off, Babar Azam has suffered an unfortunate mishap—albeit off the field. Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the Pakistan cricket star shared his frustration, posting:

“I have lost my phone and contacts. Will get back to everyone as soon as I find it.”

While the mishap does not affect his game, the timing is certainly inconvenient as he prepares for one of the most important tournaments of his career.

Meanwhile, the hype around the India-Pakistan showdown on February 23 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium has reached fever pitch. The moment tickets for the blockbuster group-stage clash went on sale, eager fans rushed to secure their spots. Within minutes, all tickets were sold out, with over 150,000 fans queuing online, leading to waiting times exceeding an hour.

Cricket enthusiasts in Dubai were left stunned by the sheer demand for seats. Sudhashree, a Dubai resident, shared her experience, saying:

“I expected a long queue, but the tickets vanished at an unbelievable speed. By the time I secured my place, only two categories remained, both beyond my budget.”

Premium seating categories, including the Dh2,000 (approx. ₹47,434) Platinum and the exclusive Dh5,000 (approx. ₹1.8 lakh) Grand Lounge, were among the first to be booked. With the Dubai International Cricket Stadium accommodating only 25,000 spectators, the ticket frenzy highlights the intensity and significance of this historic match.

With the Champions Trophy just days away, all eyes are now on Babar Azam and Team Pakistan as they gear up for what promises to be an electrifying tournament.