Cricket powerhouses India and Pakistan are set to renew their fierce rivalry in the much-anticipated Champions Trophy match in Dubai on Sunday. Due to political tensions, their clashes have become rare. However, whenever they meet on the field, millions of fans across the world tune in for the electrifying spectacle.

With a history full of intense moments, controversies, and thrilling performances, this showdown promises to be another unforgettable chapter in their storied battles. As the teams prepare for the high-stakes match, here’s a look at some of the most iconic moments from their cricketing rivalry.

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Tendulkar’s Brilliance in the 2003 World Cup

Sachin Tendulkar’s 98 against Pakistan in the 2003 World Cup remains one of his finest innings, especially for his duel with Shoaib Akhtar. He faced a strong bowling attack that included Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Akhtar. Nevertheless, he played a masterful 75-ball knock. His uppercut six against Akhtar became legendary. Although Akhtar eventually dismissed him, India comfortably secured a six-wicket victory.

Miandad’s Last-Ball Six in 1986

Javed Miandad’s final-ball six in Sharjah remains one of the most dramatic moments in ODI history. Pakistan was struggling at 61/3 while chasing 246. However, Miandad’s unbeaten 116 turned the game around. With four runs needed off the last ball, he smashed Chetan Sharma’s full toss for six, sealing a one-wicket victory.

Harbhajan vs Akhtar in the 2010 Asia Cup

The 2010 Asia Cup witnessed a heated exchange between Shoaib Akhtar and Harbhajan Singh in the final overs. Akhtar tried to rattle Harbhajan with sledging. However, the Indian spinner responded by smashing a match-winning six off Mohammad Amir. His aggressive celebration in Akhtar’s face sparked an intense moment. India’s victory eliminated Pakistan from the tournament. Eventually, they defeated Sri Lanka in the final.

Imran Khan’s Heroics in 1985

Imran Khan’s outstanding bowling figures of 6/14 against India in Sharjah showcased his brilliance. He dismantled India for just 125. However, Pakistan crumbled for 87, handing India an unexpected win. Despite the defeat, Imran was named the player of the match. Kapil Dev’s all-round performance, scoring 30 and taking three wickets, played a key role in India’s triumph.

The 1996 World Cup Quarterfinal

Navjot Singh Sidhu’s 93 and Ajay Jadeja’s quickfire 45 off 25 balls powered India to 287/8 in the 1996 World Cup quarterfinal. Pakistan started well. However, Aamir Sohail’s heated exchange with Venkatesh Prasad backfired when Prasad bowled him immediately after. Pakistan lost momentum and fell short by 39 runs.

Ganguly Outshines Anwar in 1998

Sourav Ganguly’s 124 overshadowed Saeed Anwar’s 140 in the 1998 Independence Cup final. India successfully chased a then-record 315 with one ball to spare. Hrishikesh Kanitkar sealed the thrilling win with a boundary when three runs were needed off two balls.

The First World Cup Encounter in 1992

India and Pakistan faced each other for the first time in a World Cup in 1992. Defending a modest 217, India’s bowlers bowled out Pakistan for 173 in 48.1 overs. Kapil Dev, Manoj Prabhakar, and Javagal Srinath took two wickets each. Aamer Sohail’s 62 and Miandad’s 40 weren’t enough. Meanwhile, Miandad’s animated spat with Kiran More added drama to their emerging World Cup rivalry.

Karachi Thriller in 2004

India’s first tour of Pakistan in 15 years started with a dramatic 1st ODI in Karachi. Rahul Dravid’s 99 and Virender Sehwag’s explosive 79 off 57 balls guided India to a massive 349/7. Inzamam-ul-Haq’s 122 kept Pakistan in contention. However, Murali Kartik and Zaheer Khan turned the tide. Ashish Nehra defended nine runs in the final over, denying Moin Khan a last-ball six and securing India’s thrilling win.

Tendulkar’s Lucky Escape in the 2011 World Cup Semi-Final

India posted 260/9 after electing to bat. Meanwhile, Sachin Tendulkar survived five chances before top-scoring with 85 off 115 balls. Pakistan’s chase started well. However, India’s bowlers, led by Zaheer Khan, Ashish Nehra, Munaf Patel, Harbhajan Singh, and Yuvraj Singh, took two wickets each. Pakistan was bowled out for 231 in 49.5 overs. India advanced to the final and later defeated Sri Lanka to win the World Cup.

Pakistan’s Triumph in the 2017 Champions Trophy Final

Pakistan stunned India in the 2017 Champions Trophy final with a dominant 180-run victory. Fakhar Zaman’s explosive 114 off 106 balls powered Pakistan to 338/4. In response, India collapsed for just 158 in 30.3 overs. Mohammad Amir dismantled the top order with 3/16. Hardik Pandya fought back with a blistering 76. However, it wasn’t enough as Pakistan clinched the title in emphatic fashion.

As India and Pakistan gear up for their latest battle, fans eagerly await another chapter in one of cricket’s most intense rivalries.