Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel Trigger Pakistan Collapse in Champions Trophy 2025
In the 2025 Champions Trophy, India faced Pakistan. Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel changed the game. They took key wickets and broke Pakistan’s batting order. Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel helped stabilize the innings. But then, they fell one after the other. This let India take back control of the match.
Mohammad Rizwan Falls Short of Fifty
Mohammad Rizwan began well, scoring 46 off 77 balls. He seemed ready for a big score, but Axar Patel’s smart delivery ended his innings. Rizwan tried a slog sweep, but he misjudged the ball’s flight. He yorked himself and missed completely as it hit the stumps. This breakthrough opened the door for India to tighten their grip on the game.
Axar Patel Dismisses Pakistan Captain
Axar Patel quickly took another wicket after Rizwan was out. He sent Pakistan’s captain back to the pavilion. The left-arm spinner bowled a sharp delivery that drifted. The batter swung wildly across the line.
Hardik Pandya Removes Saud Shakeel, Completes 200 Wickets
Hardik Pandya shone again as Pakistan tried to recover. He took out Saud Shakeel with a sharp short ball. Shakeel tried a pull shot but mistimed it. The ball went right to Axar Patel at square leg.
This wicket was a milestone for Pandya. He reached 200 wickets in all formats. This achievement reinforces his status as one of India’s best all-rounders.
India’s Fightback Puts Pressure on Pakistan
After two quick outs, Pakistan lost their momentum. India then fought back into the game. Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel stepped up. Their heroics put pressure on Pakistan’s middle order.
