The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is fast approaching, and cricket legends Ricky Ponting and Ravi Shastri have shared their predictions. They believe India and Australia are the strongest contenders for the final, based on their recent performances and powerful squads.
- India and Australia are the strongest contenders for the final.
- Pakistan has a good chance due to home advantage.
- The tournament starts on February 19, 2025, and ends on March 9, 2025.
- The India vs. Pakistan match on February 23 will be a major highlight.
Top Contenders for Champions Trophy 2025
India and Australia: The Powerhouses
India and Australia have a strong history in ICC events. Both teams have won the Champions Trophy twice – India in 2002 and 2013 and Australia in 2006 and 2009. Their squads are packed with experienced and talented players.
- India and Australia have played in multiple ICC finals in recent years.
- They faced each other in the 2023 Cricket World Cup final, where Australia emerged victorious.
- Both teams have the ability to handle pressure in big tournaments.
Ponting and Shastri believe their experience and depth in talent make them the favorites to win.
Pakistan: The Strong Challenger
While India and Australia are the favorites, Pakistan is also a strong contender. Ricky Ponting highlighted that Pakistan’s recent ODI success makes them a dangerous team.
- Pakistan won ODI series against Australia and South Africa.
- They are playing at home, giving them an advantage.
- They won their first Champions Trophy in 2017, defeating India in the final.
With their aggressive bowling attack and improving consistency, Pakistan could surprise everyone.
Pakistan’s Home Advantage
Playing in home conditions is always beneficial. Pakistan will host the Champions Trophy 2025, with matches in Karachi, Lahore, and Dubai.
- Home conditions suit their fast bowlers.
- The crowd support will be in their favor.
- Pakistan’s past success in subcontinent conditions gives them confidence.
Ponting mentioned that Pakistan’s unpredictability can sometimes be a weakness, but if they play consistently, they can reach the final.
Memorable Moments in Champions Trophy History
The Champions Trophy has given cricket fans many unforgettable moments. Some of the best include:
- 2002: India and Sri Lanka shared the trophy after the final was washed out.
- 2006: Australia dominated the tournament and won their first title.
- 2013: India’s young team won under MS Dhoni’s leadership.
- 2017: Pakistan stunned India in the final with an outstanding performance.
Pakistan will look to repeat their 2017 success and defend their title at home.
Champions Trophy 2025: Tournament Schedule
The tournament will feature eight teams and will be held from February 19 to March 9, 2025.
Key Matches:
- Opening Match: Pakistan vs. New Zealand in Karachi (February 19).
- India vs. Pakistan: The most anticipated match will be played in Dubai on February 23.
- Final Match: March 9, 2025.
Who Will Win?
India and Australia remain the top favorites, but Pakistan’s home advantage makes them a serious contender. The Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be an exciting tournament, filled with high-intensity matches and unforgettable moments.
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
