Champions Trophy, Ind vs Pak: Underestimating Pakistan may turn into a mistake for India

The stage has been set for the mega clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan as both the neighbouring countries will battle hard to win the Champions Trophy tournament.

While the men-in-blue will put forward their best action to defend the title, the 'green jerseys' will fight all odds to script history and become the winner of 'mini world cup' for the very first time.

A decent look at the history pages have made India the favourites but it can't be denied that every day is different and has a capability of offering new possibilities.

India, with its all round performance, has cemented its chances of holding the Cup once again. The batting order has not allowed any bowler to get under the skin so far in the tournament. If the match against Sri-Lanka is overlooked, then the bowling and the fielding department has also done well.

India, indeed, is being considered as a strong contender but eight-ranked Pakistan's stunning journey can't be ignored. The deathly bowling attack of Pakistan may ring a bell of danger for formidable Indian batting line-up. Underestimating a team like Pakistan may prove fatal for India in the tournament's finale.

After losing the first match against India by a huge margin of 124 runs, Pakistan kicked that defeat under the carpet and made a remarkable comeback by registering back to back win.

Pakistan got the better off South Africa and won the match by 19 runs to keep their hopes alive in the tournament. Pumped up with the victory over number one ranked team South Africa, Pakistan continued to shine and its next victory came against Sri-Lanka after which its path to the semi-final became crystal clear.

The green shirts didn't stop here and their next step was to cause major upset of the tournament. They trounced England with considerable ease as the English team was bundled at just 211 runs. Pakistan's glorious run in the event continued with eight-wicket win over host England. England's defeat came as a shock to many. The English team had made its place in the semi-final after defeating teams like Australia and New Zealand. The batting order of the team looked discipline until it was shaken by a storm called Pakistan.

Pakistan bowlers will try to repeat the same performance against India as well.