The Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place in Pakistan and the UAE. Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has revealed his predictions for the tournament’s semifinalists. The competition will feature eight teams competing across 15 matches from February 19 to March 9.
Harbhajan Singh’s Champions Trophy 2025 Predictions
In a recent interview, Harbhajan Singh confidently named his top four teams for the semifinals. According to him, the strongest contenders are:
- India
- Pakistan
- Australia
- New Zealand
He emphasized that Pakistan cannot be ruled out in major tournaments. His prediction is interesting because three of these teams (Pakistan, India, and New Zealand) belong to Group A.
Champions Trophy 2025: Tournament Format
The Champions Trophy 2025 will have eight teams, divided into two groups:
- Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh
- Group B: Afghanistan, South Africa, England, Australia
Each team will play group-stage matches to qualify for the semifinals. The tournament will be held in Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi (Pakistan), and Dubai (UAE).
Pakistan’s Role as Host
Pakistan will serve as the host nation, organizing 10 matches within its borders. However, due to political reasons, India’s group-stage matches and the first semifinal will take place in Dubai.
Key Matches in Pakistan
- Opening Match: Pakistan vs. New Zealand (February 19, Karachi)
- Pakistan vs. Bangladesh: Group-stage encounter in Lahore
- Semifinal Matches: Hosted in Pakistan and UAE
India’s Matches in Champions Trophy 2025
India will play all its group-stage matches in Dubai. Their schedule includes:
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 20 | Bangladesh vs. India | Dubai |
| Feb 23 | Pakistan vs. India | Dubai |
| Mar 2 | New Zealand vs. India | Dubai |
The most anticipated fixture will be India vs. Pakistan on February 23 in Dubai, a match that always garners massive attention.
India’s 15-Member Squad for Champions Trophy 2025
India recently announced its 15-member squad, featuring the return of key players:
- Batsmen: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Yashaswi Jaiswal
- Wicketkeepers: Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul
- All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja
- Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav
Importance of Champions Trophy 2025
This edition of the Champions Trophy is significant for several reasons:
- First major ICC event hosted by Pakistan since 1996
- India’s return to a Pakistan-hosted tournament (although matches are in UAE)
- A competitive lineup with strong teams in both groups
Harbhajan Singh’s prediction highlights the strength of India, Pakistan, Australia, and New Zealand. However, other teams like England, South Africa, and Afghanistan could provide tough competition. The Champions Trophy 2025 promises thrilling cricket action as teams battle for supremacy.
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