The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to be a thrilling cricket event, with the top eight ODI teams from around the world competing in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, 2025. The tournament, known for its high-stakes and intense format, promises to deliver some of the best cricketing action. With Pakistan as the defending champion, having won the tournament in 2017, the competition is expected to be fierce, with several strong teams aiming for glory. Here’s an in-depth look at the favorites to win the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and the teams to watch.
Overview of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy will feature the eight best-ranked teams in One Day International (ODI) cricket. These teams will battle it out in a round-robin group stage, followed by semi-finals and a final to determine the champion. The tournament will take place in Pakistan, which last hosted the event in 2008. As the defending champions, Pakistan will be hoping to replicate their success from 2017, when they defeated India in the final. The competition is set to be fast-paced, given the limited number of games and the knockout format.
Teams to Watch in 2025 ICC Champions Trophy
The following teams are considered the favorites to win the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, based on their recent form, past performances in ICC events, and squad strength.
1. India
India, as always, will be one of the top contenders for the Champions Trophy 2025. Their consistency in ICC tournaments, including winning the 2013 edition of the Champions Trophy, makes them a formidable force. They have a balanced team with a strong batting line-up, led by Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill. In the bowling department, they have depth with players like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja. India’s combination of experience and youth, along with their hunger to win after falling short in 2017, makes them a prime contender for the title.
2. Australia
Australia is one of the most successful teams in Champions Trophy history, having won the tournament twice (2006 and 2009). Known for their aggressive style of play, Australia will bring a mix of experienced campaigners and young talent. With players like David Warner, Steve Smith, and Marnus Labuschagne, they have the batting power to challenge any opposition. Their pace attack, spearheaded by Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, is another key strength. Australia’s winning pedigree in ICC tournaments and their adaptability to different conditions make them a team to watch in 2025.
3. England
England enters the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as one of the strongest teams in world cricket. The 2019 World Cup champions have transformed their approach to limited-overs cricket under Eoin Morgan’s leadership. The team is filled with aggressive players, including Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler, and Ben Stokes. England’s strength lies in their batting depth, and their ability to chase down big totals makes them a dangerous opponent. With a well-balanced side and a winning mentality, England will be one of the favorites to claim their first Champions Trophy title.
4. Pakistan
Pakistan, the defending champions, will aim to defend their title on home soil. Their victory in 2017 was one of the most remarkable moments in recent cricket history, and they will be looking to replicate that form in 2025. Led by Babar Azam, one of the world’s top batsmen, Pakistan also boasts a strong bowling attack, with Shaheen Shah Afridi leading the charge. The home advantage, combined with a team that thrives in big tournaments, makes Pakistan a serious contender for the title once again.
Other Teams to Watch
- New Zealand: Always a competitive force in ICC events, New Zealand’s consistency in ICC tournaments (including a 2015 World Cup final appearance) makes them a tough opponent. With experienced players like Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor, along with their strong bowling attack, New Zealand could cause an upset.
- South Africa: South Africa, winners of the inaugural Champions Trophy in 1998, will be keen to end their long wait for another ICC trophy. With a squad including Aiden Markram, Quinton de Kock, and Kagiso Rabada, they have the potential to challenge for the title.
Squads for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The full squads for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be selected closer to the tournament, but the current squads of the leading teams are filled with high-caliber players who have the potential to make an impact. Players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Steve Smith, and Babar Azam are expected to play pivotal roles in their respective teams.
Notable players for ICC Champions Trophy 2025:
- India: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah
- Australia: David Warner, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc
- England: Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer
- Pakistan: Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Fakhar Zaman
Potential breakout players:
- India: Shubman Gill (young opening batsman)
- Australia: Cameron Green (all-rounder)
- England: Harry Brook (middle-order batsman)
- Pakistan: Mohammad Wasim Jr. (fast bowler)
Venue for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be held in Pakistan, with matches taking place in some of the country’s most iconic cricket stadiums. Key venues are expected to include Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and Karachi’s National Stadium, both of which have hosted numerous high-profile international matches.
Key features:
- Gaddafi Stadium: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and large capacity, this venue is a fan favorite. The pitch typically offers some assistance to both batters and bowlers, making it an exciting location for ODIs.
- National Stadium: With its history of hosting memorable cricket matches, the National Stadium in Karachi is expected to play a central role in the 2025 tournament.
History:
Both stadiums have a rich history of hosting international cricket, and their inclusion in the 2025 tournament adds to the prestige of the event.
Dates and Timetable for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will run from February 19 to March 9, 2025, with the group stage beginning shortly after the opening ceremony. The key matches to watch will include the highly anticipated India vs. Pakistan clash, which is always a marquee fixture in any ICC event. The semi-finals and the final will provide the ultimate test of skill, and the excitement will build up as the tournament progresses.
Champions Trophy 2025 Compete updated schedule
Predictions for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Who will win the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
While several teams are capable of lifting the trophy, India seems to be the team with the most well-rounded squad. Their experience in ICC events, combined with strong players in every department, makes them the favorites.
Who will be the runners-up in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
Australia will likely be the runners-up, given their rich history in ICC tournaments and their current team dynamics. With their strong batting and bowling attack, they will be hard to beat.
Which team will be the biggest disappointment in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
South Africa might be the biggest disappointment in 2025. Despite having a strong squad on paper, their inconsistency in big tournaments could hold them back once again.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be a highly competitive tournament, with several teams vying for the prestigious title. India, Australia, England, and Pakistan are the top contenders, but as with any major ICC event, surprises and upsets are always part of the thrill. The tournament will showcase the best of ODI cricket and provide plenty of drama for cricket fans worldwide.
