DUBAI: Indian fast bowler Mohammad Shami has stated that his primary focus during the Champions Trophy 2025 will be on cricket, and he plans to compensate for missed fasts during Ramadan at a later time. Speaking to reporters at the Dubai Cricket Stadium, Shami acknowledged the challenges of playing during the holy month but emphasized that representing his country remains his top priority.
Shami explained that professional cricketers in India follow a structured schedule tailored to their commitments, which they must adhere to. He highlighted the difficulties of balancing Ramadan observances with the demands of international cricket but noted that players are advised to maintain proper nutrition, rest, and recovery routines to ensure peak performance.
The fast bowler played a pivotal role in India’s journey to the final of the ongoing tournament, taking three crucial wickets against Australia in the semi-final. Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, the Indian team has remained unbeaten in the competition and is set to face New Zealand in the final, with both teams vying for the prestigious title.
India and New Zealand previously clashed during the group stage, where India emerged victorious thanks to Varun Chakravarthy’s impressive figures of 5-42. As they head into the final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, India is considered the favorite, bolstered by their dominant performance throughout the tournament. They have won all four of their matches in Dubai, including a 44-run victory over New Zealand in the group phase, although both teams had already secured semi-final spots by then.
India’s decision to play all their matches in Dubai, rather than traveling to Pakistan due to political tensions, has not hindered their performance. However, New Zealand, aiming to win the Champions Trophy for the second time after their 2000 triumph, poses a formidable challenge. Despite India’s strong form and the support of a passionate crowd at the 25,000-capacity stadium, recent history favors New Zealand.
The Black Caps have a notable edge over India in global white-ball tournaments, with nine wins, six losses, and one no-result in their head-to-head encounters. As the two teams prepare for the final, the stage is set for an intense battle between India’s confidence and New Zealand’s historical advantage.
