Pride, bragging rights, and a $2.24 million winner’s cheque will be on the line as the world’s top eight ODI teams compete in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to begin in Pakistan on Wednesday.
The tournament marks the return of a major ICC event to Pakistan after 29 years, adding an extra layer of excitement for the home side. Pakistan, the defending champions from 2017, will aim to lift the trophy once again in front of their home crowd.
Meanwhile, India, the reigning T20 world champions, will be eager to avenge their 180-run loss to Pakistan in the 2017 final and secure their third Champions Trophy title.
Here’s a look at the top three teams likely to contend for the trophy:
India – The Powerhouse on a Mission
- Best Result: Champions (2002, 2013)
- ODI Ranking: 1
- Key Players: Shubman Gill, Kuldeep Yadav, Hardik Pandya
After falling short in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia, India bounced back to win the T20 World Cup, reaffirming their dominance in white-ball cricket.
Rohit Sharma’s squad enters the tournament in red-hot form, having recently crushed England 3-0 in an ODI series. With Shubman Gill’s exceptional batting, Kuldeep Yadav’s crafty spin, and Hardik Pandya’s all-round abilities, India is the team to beat.
Pakistan – Home Advantage and a Star-Studded Lineup
- Best Result: Champions (2017)
- ODI Ranking: 3
- Key Players: Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Fakhar Zaman
Pakistan’s cricket journey is often unpredictable, filled with stunning victories and unexpected setbacks. However, with home support and a talented squad, they are serious contenders.
Led by Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan boasts Babar Azam’s class, Shaheen Afridi’s pace, and Fakhar Zaman’s big-match temperament—key weapons for their title defense. Recent series wins over Australia (2-1) and South Africa (3-0) show they are ready to challenge the best.
New Zealand – The Underrated Threat
- Best Result: Champions (2000)
- ODI Ranking: 4
- Key Players: Kane Williamson, Matt Henry, Mitchell Santner
New Zealand consistently reaches the knockout stages of ICC events but struggles to convert opportunities into trophies. With experienced names like Kane Williamson and Mitchell Santner, along with a recent tri-nation series win in Pakistan, they could finally break the drought.
Their superior fielding, disciplined bowling, and ability to handle pressure make them dangerous opponents in crucial matches.
Who Will Lift the Trophy?
With a highly competitive lineup, the Champions Trophy 2025 promises thrilling encounters. India enters as the top favorite, Pakistan seeks home glory, and New Zealand remains a dark horse. Cricket fans worldwide eagerly await what could be one of the most memorable ICC events in recent history.
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