Former India spinner Piyush Chawla has identified middle-order batter Salman Ali Agha as the biggest weapon of Pakistan against the Men in Blue ahead of their much-awaited ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash.
Speaking in a recent interview, Chawla highlighted Salman Agha’s attacking approach, which was on full display during Pakistan’s record-breaking run chase against South Africa in the recently concluded tri-nation ODI series.
The right-hander also played a crucial role in Pakistan’s opening game of the Champions Trophy, scoring a brisk 42 off 28 balls against New Zealand under pressure in Karachi.
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“The biggest threat from the Pakistan team is Salman Ali Agha because he’s the kind of player who can change the course of a game on his day,” Piyush Chawla said.
“He’s an attacking batsman, and we have seen what he is capable of. When Pakistan was chasing 350-odd runs against South Africa, the kind of hundred he got was remarkable.
“He’s an aggressive player who can turn the game around.”
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However, Piyush Chawla backed India to have the upper hand in the much-anticipated fixture, citing their strong record against Pakistan in ICC events and their recent form.
“Based on form, India has the edge because, in ICC tournaments, especially in the one-day format, India has performed well against Pakistan,” he noted.
“Pakistan does have a slight advantage in the Champions Trophy, but looking at the current form—the way the Indian team is playing and how Pakistan struggled against New Zealand—India has a better chance.”
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