Compare Virat Kohli and Babar Azam's ODI records and Champions Trophy performances ahead of the India-Pakistan showdown in ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Interim head coach Aqib Javed, who addressed the media after practice, did not give any specific reason for Azam's absence, saying that the former captain chose to rest.

Pakistan's premier batter Babar Azam has been in the headlines recently ahead of the mega ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash versus India.

There is widespread speculation that star batter Babar Azam might not be selected for the match against India, as he was absent from the practice session on Saturday evening.

Babar Azam had invited significant criticism for his lack of intent as he batted at a strike rate nearing 66 off 90 deliveries in their previous match against New Zealand.

Ahead of the much-awaited clash between Pakistan and India, all eyes will be on former skipper and right-hand batter Babar Azam, whose performance will be on the radar, especially how he fares against the quality Indian spinners in the Champions Trophy blockbuster clash between the two sides in Dubai on Sunday.

Pakistan take on arch-rivals India in Dubai in their upcoming fixture, and need a win to get their campaign back on track.

Pakistan could drop Babar Azam for the high-octane clash against India in the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. Babar faced significant flak for his 64-run knock off 90 deliveries when the team was slated to chase 321 in the tournament opener against New Zealand.