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The Champions Trophy 2025 is set to begin on February 19, 2025, in Pakistan. The tournament marks the return of this prestigious fifty-over event after an eight-year break. Fans worldwide are eagerly waiting for the competition, which promises to be an exciting showdown among top cricketing nations.
However, the tournament might also be the last Champions Trophy for several seasoned players. Some captains are nearing the twilight of their careers, and the 2025 edition could be their final appearance. Here, we highlight three captains who might play their last Champions Trophy.
- Rohit Sharma, Jos Buttler, and Temba Bavuma are likely playing their last Champions Trophy.
- All three players are in their mid-to-late 30s and might not feature in Champions Trophy 2029.
- India, England, and South Africa could appoint new captains after the 2025 event.
1. Rohit Sharma – India’s Veteran Leader
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Rohit Sharma, India’s experienced opener and skipper, will be 37 years old during the Champions Trophy 2025. Given that the next edition is in 2029, when he will be 41, this could be his last chance to lead India in an ICC event.
- Rohit’s current form is a concern. Despite a century in the second ODI, his consistency across formats has dipped.
- His 2024 stats in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is:
- Runs: 1154
- Innings: 40
- Average: 31
- Rohit’s captaincy experience is crucial for India, but selectors might look for younger options after 2025.
2. Jos Buttler – England’s White-Ball Specialist
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Jos Buttler, England’s limited-overs captain, is another big name who might be playing his last Champions Trophy. The right-handed batter is currently 34 years old and will be 38 by the next edition in 2029.
- Buttler’s form has been inconsistent, especially in ODIs.
- His 2024 performance in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is:
- Runs: 462
- Innings: 13
- Average: 42
- Given the rise of young talents, Buttler might shift focus to T20s and franchise cricket, making Champions Trophy 2025 his final appearance in ODIs.
3. Temba Bavuma – South Africa’s Dependable Captain
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South Africa’s Temba Bavuma is another senior player who might not feature in the next Champions Trophy. The 34-year-old captain has had an inconsistent ODI career, making it unlikely for him to continue till 2029.
- Bavuma’s 2024 stats in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is:
- Runs: 622
- Innings: 16
- Average: 44
- South Africa might move forward with Aiden Markram as their full-time captain after Champions Trophy 2025 and the World Test Championship (WTC) Final.
What This Means for Champions Trophy 2025
The Champions Trophy 2025 will be a significant tournament, not just for teams but also for these legendary captains. Their leadership, experience, and performances will be crucial for their respective teams. However, as cricket evolves, younger players will step in to take their place.
Captain Performance in 2024 (All Formats)
Captain | Runs | Innings | Average |
---|---|---|---|
Rohit Sharma | 1154 | 40 | 31 |
Jos Buttler | 462 | 13 | 42 |
Temba Bavuma | 622 | 16 | 44 |
The Champions Trophy 2025 will not only be a thrilling tournament but also an emotional one for fans as they might see some of their favorite captains play in an ICC event for the last time. As these legends prepare for their final chapter, cricket enthusiasts will eagerly watch how they perform on the big stage.
Check out the Champions Trophy Schedule, Champions Trophy Live Score, Champions Trophy Squads , Champions Trophy Stats Champions Trophy Tour, Champions Trophy Venues & Champions Trophy Latest News here!
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Matches
Pakistan vs New Zealand - 1st Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs India - 2nd Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs South Africa - 3rd Match, Group B | Australia vs England - 4th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs India - 5th Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs New Zealand - 6th Match, Group A | Australia vs South Africa - 7th Match, Group B | Afghanistan vs England - 8th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs Bangladesh - 9th Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs Australia - 10th Match, Group B | England vs South Africa - 11th Match, Group B | New Zealand vs India - 12th Match, Group A | TBA vs TBA, 1st Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, 2nd Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, Final |
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Teams
PAKISTAN | NEW ZEALAND | BANGLADESH | INDIA | AFGHANISTAN | SOUTH AFRICA | AUSTRALIA | ENGLAND