The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will take place from February 19 to March 9, this will be the ninth edition of the prestigious tournament, marking its return after an eight-year hiatus. The hybrid model will see Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) hosting the competition, with the reigning champions Pakistan aimi??ng t??o defend their title.

Tournament format and schedule

The eight participating teams – India, Pakistan, South Africa, Bangladesh, Australia, England, New Zealand and Afghanistan – have been divided into two groups of four. The event will kick off on February 19, with hosts Pakistan facing New Zealand at the National Stadium, Karachi. India’s highly anticipated group-stage match against New Zealand will take place on March 2 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, while the final will be held on March 9.

The Champions Trophy has always been a fiercel??y competitive tournament, with its compact format allowing little room for error. As teams finalize their squads ahead o??????????????????????????f the ICC’s January 12 deadline, discussions about team compositions and strategies are heating up.

South Africa’s chances in the tournament

South Africa will enter the Champions Trophy 2025 as one of the potential contenders. Known for their consistent performances in ICC tournaments, the Proteas are aiming to end a long title drought in this event. They last tasted glory in the ina??ugural edition of the tournament, then known as the ICC Knockout Trophy, in 1998 in Bangladesh. However, since then, South Africa has struggled in the Champions Trophy, failing to reach another final and crashing out in the group stage in 2017.

Temba Bavuma’s side has shown promise in recent years, reaching the semifinals of the 2023 ODI World Cup and the final of the 2024 T20 World Cup. Despite suffering a 0-3 home series defeat against Pakistan recently, South Africa remains a st??rong contender. Their preparations include a tri-series in Multan involving Pakistan and New Zealand, giving them a chance to regain momentum ahead of the tournament.

Key challenges and opportunities

The Champions Trophy 2025 presents unique challenges, especially with matches spread across two distinct venues – Pakistan’s spin-friendly tracks and the UAE’s flat, batting-friendly pitches. For teams like South Africa, adapting quickly to varying conditions will be crucial. As the January 12 deadline for squad submissions looms, selectors are working to finalize their rosters. South Africa, in particular, will need to strike a balance between experienced campaigners and promising newcomers. With Bavuma leading the side, the Proteas will hope to rely on their in-form players to navigate the tournament’s high-pressure environment.

Also READ: Cricket South Afr?ica responds to sports minister’s call for?? Afghanistan boycott in Champions Trophy 2025

Here’s predicted South Africa’s squad for Champions Trophy 2025

1. Temba Bavuma (Captain)

Temba Bavuma is the steadying force at the top of South Africa’s batting order. Known for his composure und?er pressure, he?? brings leadership and tactical acumen to the team. While his form in ODIs has been inconsistent lately, Bavuma’s ability to anchor the innings will be pivotal on slow Pakistan pitches. His captaincy will play a crucial role in navigating high-stakes matches.

2. Aiden Markram

A versatile batter, Aiden ?Markram is equally adept at playing attacking and consolidative roles. Markram’s ability to play spin effectively makes him a key player in subcontinental conditions. He can also chip in with handy off-spin, providing balance to the XI. His recent form in white-ball cricket underscores his value to the team.

3. Reeza Hendricks

Reeza Hendricks is a technically sound opener known for his ability to build partnerships. With a knack for finding gaps in the powerplay, he often? sets the ??tone for South Africa’s innings. Hendricks has been consistent in ODIs and will be crucial in combating quality pace and spin early on.

4. Heinrich Klaasen (Wicketkeeper)

One of the most destructive batters in the middle order, Heinrich Klaasen’s ability to accelerate in the death overs makes him indispensable. His wicketkeeping skills add versatility to the squad, providing an additional option behind the stumps. Klaasen’s rece??nt heroics in white-ball cricket highlight his game-changing potential.

5. David Miller

The experienced southpaw, David Miller, is a ??reliable finisher who thrives under pressure. His power-hitting in the final overs can turn games around for South?? Africa. Miller’s ability to handle spin and pace alike makes him a crucial asset in UAE’s batting-friendly conditions.

6. Ryan Rickelton

A promising top-orde?r batter, Ryan Rickelton is known for his aggressive approach and solid technique. While relatively n?ew to the international stage, Rickelton has shown glimpses of brilliance in domestic cricket. His inclusion adds depth and flexibility to South Africa’s batting order.

7. Rassie van der Dussen

Rassie van der Dussen is a dependable batter who excels in building innings and rotating the strike. His consistency in ODIs makes him the backbone of South Africa’s middle order. Van der Dussen’s abili??ty to adapt to different match situations will be critical in high-pressure games.

8. Tristan Stubbs

Tristan Stubbs is an exciting young talent ?with explosive batting capabilities. Known for his fearless stroke play, Stubbs is a game-changer in the lower middle order. His agility in the field adds value, making him a dynamic player in the squad.

9. Marco Jansen

A tall left-arm pacer, Marco Jansen brings a unique angle to South Africa’s bowling attack. His ability to swing the ball and extract bounce mak?es him a potent weapon on any surface. Jansen’s handy batting ski??lls also make him a valuable lower-order all-rounder.

10. Corbin Bosch

Corbin Bosch is a versatile all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball. Known for his accurate medi??um pace, he provides control in the middle overs. Bosch’s ability to finish innings with the bat makes him a strong contender for the squad.

11. Keshav Maharaj

Keshav Maharaj is South Africa’s go-to spinner in ODIs, known for his control and ability to take wickets in the middle overs. His exper??ience on subcontinental tracks will be invaluable during the Champions Trophy. Maharaj can also contribute valuable runs lower down the order.

12. Tabraiz Shamsi

A left-arm wrist spinner, T?abraiz Shamsi is a proven wicket-taker in white-ball cricket. His variations and ability to outfox batters make him a match-winner, especially in spin-friendly conditions. Shamsi’s knack for breaking partnerships will be key in middle overs.

13. Kagiso Rabada

Kagiso Rabada is the spearhead of South Africa’s pace attack, bringing speed, aggression, and accuracy. His ability to strike early with the new ball and deliver pinpoint yorkers at the death make??s him indispensable. Rabada’s experience in ICC tournaments adds to his value.

14. Anrich Nortje / Wiaan Mulder

• Anrich Nortje: A genuine quick, Nortje’s raw pace and hostility can rattle batters on any surface. His ability to extract extra bounce will be an asset in Pakistan and UAE.
• Wiaan Mulder: A reliable seam-bowling all-rounder, Mulder provides balance to the squad with his ability to bowl tight spells and contribute with the bat in crunch situations.

15. Beuran Hendricks / Andile Phehlukwayo

• Beuran Hendricks: A left-arm seamer, Hendricks adds variety to South Africa’s pace attack. His ability to swing the ball makes him effective in the powerplay.
• Andile Phehlukwayo: An experienced all-rounder, Phehlukwayo’s ability to bowl in different phases and score quick runs in the lower order makes him a versatile option.

Also READ: Pakistan’s 15-member squad for the ICC Champions?? Trophy 2025 �Predicted

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Cricket South Africa (CSA) have issued an official statement following a call from Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie to boycott their match against Afghanistan in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The minister’s advocacy comes in response to the ongoing suppression of women’s rights by the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, a controversial issue that has stirred debate within the cricket community globally.

South Africa sports minister’s stance on Afghanistan

Minister McKenzie expressed strong moral reservations about playing against Afghanistan drawing parallel to South Africa’s history of apartheid, explaining his stance against discrimination in sports. He stressed the hypocrisy of ignoring the plight of Afghan women while condemning similar injustices faced by South Africans during apartheid.

“As a man who comes from a race that was not allowed equal access to sporting opportunities during apartheid, it would be hypocritical and immoral to look the other way today when the same is being done towards women anywhere in the world,” said McKenzie as quoted by TOI.

Also READ: 3 Australian players who can replace Pat Cummins in Champions Trophy 2025 if he remains un?fit

CSA responds to minister’s call for Afghanistan boycott

In response, CSA has made clear that while they acknowledge the abhorrent treatment of women in Afghanistan, the decision regarding participation in the Champions Trophy lies with the International Cricket Council (ICC).

“CSA found ‘the treatment and suppression of women’s rights in Afghanistan abhorrent and firmly believes that women’s cricket deserves equal recognition and resources. As the Champions Trophy is an ICC event, the position on Afghanistan must be guided by the world body in accordance with international tournament participation requirements and regulations,” stated CSA.

Notably, the debate over boycotting Afghanistan in international cricket isn’t new. Earlier, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) had faced similar calls from UK politicians, with over 160 signing a letter to urge England to boycott their match in support of women’s rights in Afghanistan. However, the ECB chose not to boycott, advocating instead for a coordinated I??CC-wide approach to address the issue more effectively.

Also READ: Team India’s 15-member squad ?for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 ??�Predicted

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India’s disappointing 1-3 loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 against Australia has left serious questions about Rohit Sharma’s position in the team.

Rohit Sharma’s future in doubt after Border-Gavaskar Trophy debacle

Rohit endured a forgettable series with the bat, managing just 31 runs across five matches, a stark contrast to the high expectations placed on him. Under his leadership, India failed to secure a single Test victory, marking their first BGT loss in eight years. The disastrous tour has ignited speculation about Rohit’s retirement, not only from Test cricket but possibly from all formats of the game. Even before the Australian tour, India suffered a historic whitewash under Rohit’s leadership at home against New Zealand. Such talks have gai??ned?? momentum after his underwhelming performances, coupled with India’s inability to dominate in crucial matches, raising concerns over his future contributions in the longest format.

Adam Gilchrist’s perspective on Rohit’s retirement

Former Australian wicketkeeper and Rohit’s ex-Indian Premier League (IPL) captain at the Deccan Chargers, Adam Gilchrist, has weighed in on the Indian skipper’s future in international cricket. Speaking on the Club Prairie Fire podcast, Gilchrist expressed his belief that Rohit might retire from international cricket soon, potentially following the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

He also hinted that the England Test series, scheduled for June 2025, may not feature Rohit in the Indian squad, mar??king a potential shift in the team’s leadership and composition. A?ccording to Gilchrist, the 37-year-old’s priorities might now focus on family and limited-overs cricket, suggesting a natural transition for the veteran cricketer.

“I don’t see Rohit going to England. I just felt that he says he will assess it when he gets home. The first thing he will be met with is a two-month-old baby that he has to change the nappies on. Now that might incentivize him to go to England. But I think he’ll probably have a crack at the Champions Trophy, and that might see him out,” Gilchrist said.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Ravi Shastri speaks out on Ro??hit Sharma’s potential Test ?retirement

India’s upcoming cricket calendar and Rohit’s role

India has?? a packed cricketing schedule in the coming months, starting with a home whi?te-ball series against England. This series will serve as a crucial preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy, which is slated to commence on February 19, 2025. Rohit is expected to lead the team in this marquee tournament, a competition India will aim to win, given their historical success in ICC events.

Following the Champions Trophy, India is set to tour England for a high-stakes five-match Test series, beginning on June 20, 2025, at Headingley. This tour will be a pivotal moment for the Indian team, as they aim to secure their first Test series victory on English soil since 2007. The last England tour in 2022 ended in a 2-2 draw, leaving unfinished business for both teams. With the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle set to start anew, this series will also shape the team’s roadmap for the future. However, with Gilchrist’s comments casting doubt o?ver Rohit’s participation, the series could mark the beginning of a new leadership era for Indian Test cricket.

Also READ: 3 A??ustralian players who can rep??lace Pat Cummins in Champions Trophy 2025 if he remains unfit

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The final date for naming the provisional squads for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is January 12, and teams are racing against time to finalize their line-ups. The tournament, starting February 19, will be hosted in a hybrid model, with Pakistan as the primary host and India’s matches played in the UAE due to political tensions between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Thi?s unique arr?angement has added intrigue to what promises to be a competitive tournament.

Pakistan’s preparation for the Champions Trophy

The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy is of paramount importance for Pakistan. They will enter the tournament as the defending champions, having clinched the title in 2017 in England, defeating India in the final. With their new white-ball captain, Mohammad Rizwan, leading the side, Pakistan has displayed impressive form, recently whitewashing both Australia and South Africa in ODI series. However, injury concerns to some key players could impact their campaign on home soil. Pakistan will look to ??capitalize on the flat batting tracks at home, but their success depends on fielding a fit and balanced squa?d.

Here’s predicted Pakistan’s squad for the Champions Trophy 2025

1. Saim Ayub (Top Order Batter)

One of the standout players for Pakistan in recent months, Saim Ayub, faces an uncertain road to the Champions Trophy.? T??he young left-hander, who has taken the cricketing world by storm with his phenomenal form in ODIs, suffered a fractured ankle during the second Test against South Africa. This injury has ruled him out for a minimum of six weeks, casting doubt over his participation.

Ayub’s ODI Performances

• Matches Played: 9
• Centuries: 3
• Fifties: 1
• Recent Contributions: Saim was instrumental in Pakistan’s series win against South Africa, scoring 235 runs in his last three ODIs.

If Saim remains unfit, Pakistan might lose a key player who has proven his mettle on flat batting tracks. Even if he regains fitness just before the tournament, a lack of match practice could limit his effectiveness. In his absence, Imam-ul-Haq or Fakhar Zaman expected to step in as an opener alongside Abdullah Shafique.
2. Abdullah Shafique (Top-Order Batter)

Shafique is known for his composed batting technique and ability to a??nchor the innings. With solid performances in Test and ODI cricket, he is a reliable option at the top of the order. His adaptability to different conditions will be vital on flat and spin-friendly tracks. Shafique’s role will be crucial in providing Pakistan with steady starts in the Champions Trophy.

3. Mohammad Rizwan (Captain and Wicketkeeper)

Mohammad Rizwan’s consistency and leadership make him a key figure for Pakistan. As ??the new white-ball captain, Rizwan has excelled in guiding the team and maintaining his form with the bat. His wicketkeeping skills add an edge, making him a complete package. Rizwan’s ability to stabilize the innings under pressure will be invaluable in high-stakes matches.

4. Babar Azam (Top-Order Batter)

Babar Azam, one of the world’s best batters, will carry the weight of Pakistan’s batting hopes. His exquisite stroke play and consistency make him the backbone of the batting lineup. Babar thrives in ODI cricket, and his performances in ICC events have always been?? noteworthy. His experience and calm demeanor will be crucial in navig??ating tough situations.

5. Irfan Khan (Top-Order Batter)

Irfan Khan, a promising talent, adds depth to Pakistan’s top order. W??ith a strong domestic record, he has shown the ability to play long innings and handle pressure. His elegant battin?g style and knack for building partnerships make him a valuable asset. Irfan’s inclusion offers Pakistan flexibility in shaping their batting strategy.

Also READ: Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman predicts his four semifinalists of Champions T?rophy 2025

6. Tayyab Tahir (Middle-Order Batter)

Tayyab Tahir is an aggressive middle-order batter with a reputation for finishing games. Known for his ability to counterattack, he can shift the momentum in Pakistan’s favor during the middle overs. His adaptability to different situ??ations and spin-hitting prowess are key strengths. Tahir’s role will be vital in accelerating the run rate when required.

7. Usman Khan (Middle-Order Batter)

Usman Khan brings explosiveness to Pakistan’s middle order with his attacking batting style. His ability to clear boundaries and handle high-pressure situations is a significant asset. Usman’s recent performances in limited-overs cricket hav??e solidified his position in the squad. He is expected to play the role of a game-changer in crunc??h moments.

8. Salman Agha (All-Rounder)

Salman Agha? offers a balanced combination of solid batting and off-spin bowling. His versatility allows Pakistan to maintain flexibility in team composition. Salman’s ability to play crucial innings in the lower-middle order and bowl economical overs makes him a key asset. His performance in the Champions Trophy could provide the team with vital breakthroughs.

9. Kamran Ghulam (Middle-Order Batter)

Kamran Ghulam is a dependable batter who brings stability to the lower middle order. His ability to rotate the strike and accelerate when needed adds depth to the lineup. Kamran’s consistent domestic performances make him a pl?ayer to watch. He could play a pivotal role in building partnerships and finishing games.

10. Mohammad Hasnain (Fast Bowler)

Mohammad Hasnain’s raw? pace and ability to extract bounce make him a threat on any surface. His knack for taking early wickets will be crucial in Pakistan’s bowling attack. Hasnain’s recent i??mprovements in control and variations add to his effectiveness. He will play a key role in unsettling opposition batters with his fiery spells.

11. Sufiyan Muqeem (Left-Arm Wrist Spinner)

Sufiyan Muqeem is a young and talented left-arm wrist spinner who has impressed with his accur??acy. His ability to contain runs and pick up wickets in the middle overs will be vital on spin-friendly tracks. Muqeem’s variation and control make him a valuable addition to the squad. His performance in the Champions Trophy could establish him as a ??rising star.

12. Haris Rauf (Fast Bowler)

Haris Rauf is Pakistan’s go-to bowler for pace and aggression. His ability to bowl ?at high speeds and deliver accurate yorkers makes him lethal at the death. Rauf’s knack for picking up crucial wickets under pressure has been a hallmark of his career. His role in leading the pace attack alongside Shaheen Afridi will be pivotal.

13. Usama Mir (Leg-Spinner)

Usama Mir is an attacking leg-spinner who brings a wicket-taking option to the middle overs. His ability to deceive batters with flight and sharp turn makes him a key player. Usama’s recent performances have showcased his match-winning potential in white-ball cricket. He will play a crucial role in brea??king partnerships during the Champions Trophy.

14. Naseem Shah (Fast Bowler)

Naseem Shah’s lethal pac?e and swing make him a formidable bowler with the new ball. His ability to bowl consistent lines and lengths adds control to Pakistan’s attack. Naseem has emerged as a dependable bowler in ICC events and pressure situations. His partnership with Shaheen Afridi will be crucial i?n dismantling opposition top orders.

15. Shaheen Afridi (Fast Bowler)

Shaheen ?Afridi, Pakistan’s spearhead, is known for his ability to strike early with the new ball. His deadly inswingers and pinpoint yorkers make him a match-winner in ODIs. Shaheen’s performances in ICC tournaments have consistently been top-notch. As a senior bowler, his role will be instrumental in leading the pace attack.

Also READ: Champions Tr?ophy 2025: Pakistan legend appointed as mentor for ??the Afghanistan team

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In a move that could redefine the leadership landscape of Indian cricket, all-rounder Hardik Pandya is poised to take the captaincy of the Indian cricket team for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, should current skipper Rohit Sharma be sidelined. This development comes in the wake of Rohit’s recent decision to skip the fifth Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, stirring discussions about his future as captain in t?he white-ball format.

Leadership transition on the horizon

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly been engaging in discussions about who should lead the team into next year’s Champions Trophy. With Rohit’s absence from the Sydney Test match, the selectors are considering their options, with Pandya emerging as the top choice to helm the team in the ODI tournament.

Media reports confirm that if Rohit’s role as ODI captain is questioned or if he opts out, Pandya, with his proven track record of leading in high-pressure scenarios, could be the new face of Indian cricket leadership.

“Hardik has the knack for leading in high-pressure situations, and his experience as an all-rounder and leader makes him an ideal choice for an ICC tournament like the Champions Trophy,” a source told MyKhel as quoted by ??Hindusta??n Times.

Also READ: AU?S?? vs IND: Here’s why Rohit Sharma is not playing the Sydney Test

Rohit Sharma’s future in question

Rohit, who led India to the T20 World Cup title in 2024 before retiring from the format, has been the subject of much speculation regarding his role across cricket formats. His decision?? to skip the Sydney Test has fueled debates about his commitment to Test cricket and, by extension, his leadership in the one-day format. Although Rohit hasn’t yet announced anything, his position in ODIs is under review, especially with the Champions Trophy looming.

Hardik Pandya’s leadership credentials

Pandya’s leadership credentials are well established, having captained India in various white-ball matches and showing commendable performance in the IPL. His all-round capabilities, alongside his knack for managing both senior and young players, position him as a strong contender.

Also READ: The turnaround of Rohit Sharma in Tests: A deep dive into his aver??age and stats in longest format of the game

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India’s premier cricketers – Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli – are expected to miss the crucial home ODI series against England in February 2025. This series will be India’s final bilateral fixture before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which starts later that month.

Potential reason for Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah’s absence in England ODIs 

India’s calendar is packed ahead of the Champions Trophy. After the conclusion of five-match Test series with Australia, the team will host England for five T20Is starting January 22, followed by three ODIs from February 6 to February 12. These matches are critical for fine-tuning India’s squad, assessing combinations, and gaining momentum ahead of the mega event.

However, as reported by Sports Tak, Bumrah will sit out the T20I series, while all three players are expected to skip the ODI series. This marks a significant gap in match practice for Rohit and Kohli, who have retired from T20Is following the T20 World Cup 2024. Their absence may leave India’s ODI plans without their experienced top-order anchors and strike bowler.

The report suggested that Bumrah will be rested as part of workload management, while both Rohit and Kohli are likely to be on leave. This decision, if finalized, could impact India’s preparation for the marquee tournament, raising questions about the trio’s readiness for white-ball cricket after the extended Test series.

Also READ: Team Indiaâ€??™s full schedule till IPL 2025: England series, Champions Tr??ophy & More

Concerns around Kohli and Rohit’s form

Both Kohli and Rohit have been struggling for form in the ongoing Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 against Australia. Kohli has failed to convert starts into big scores, while Rohit has shown inconsistent performances at the top. The ODI series against England would have provided an ideal opportunity for the duo to regain form and confidence in limited-overs cricket. If they miss the series, Kohli and Rohit will face the challenge of transitioning directly from red-ball cricket to the ??intense white-ball contests of the Champions Trophy. This lack of match conditioning could potentially hinder their performance against top-quality opposition in a high-stakes tournament.

Champions Trophy 2025: India’s Path

The CT 2025 adopts a hybrid model, with India’s matches scheduled in Dubai. The tournament begins on February 19, with India kicking off their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20. A blockbuster clash against arch-rivals Pakistan is set for February 23, drawing global attention. India have been placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh. Group B features powerhouses like Australia, England, South Africa and Afghanistan. Should India progress, the final will also be held in ?Dubai, providing a neutral venue for a potential sho?wdown.

Also READ: England announces? T20I sq?uad for India tour; Jos Buttler to lead

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Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman has revealed his picks for the semi-finalists of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. After months of speculation, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has resolved hosting uncertainties by confirming the tournament will be held across Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The eight-team event, played in a 50-over format, will feature 15 matches. Notably England are the ??only nation to have announced their squad so far.

Champions Trophy 2025: Host and venue details

India’s matches of the Champions Trophy 2025 have been shifted to Dubai due to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)’s decision not to send its team to Pakistan, citi??ng security concerns.

The tournament will feature eight teams divided into two groups of four. Group A consists of Pakistan, India, New Zealand and Bangladesh, while Group B includes Australia, England, South Africa and Afghanistan. Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi will host the group-stage matches in Pakistan, while Dubai will serve as the venue for the knockout stages, including bot??h semi-finals and the final. If India qualifies for the final, the match will be played in Dubai, with reserve days in place for both semi-finals and the final to ensure no interruptions due to weather.

Also READ: Dinesh Karthik names Rohit Sharma’s opening partner for the ?Champions Trophy 2025

Fakhar Zaman’s semifinalists

Speaking on Basit Ali’s YouTube channel, Fakhar expressed confidence in teams from subcontinent securing a spot in the final fo??ur. Despite formidable sides like New Zealand, England, and Australia, Fakhar included Sou?th Africa in his list of semi-finalists.

“Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, and South Africa are the teams I believe will reach the semi-finals,” Fakhar stated.

Zaman’s memorable performance in the Champions Trophy 2017 final, where he scored a match-winning century against the arch-rivals, India, remains a defining moment of his career. His knock secured P?akistan’s first-ever Champions Trophy victory, and Fakhar was subsequently named Player of the Match.

Also READ: Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi pr??edicts his four semifinalists of Champions Trophy 2025

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India’s matches in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will take place in the UAE, a decision solidified following a meeting between Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) ch??airman Mohsin Naqvi and Sheikh Nahyan A?l Mubarak, the head of Emirates Cricket Board.

The much-anticipated India versus Pakistan group-stage match is scheduled for Sunday, February 23, in Dubai. India’s other group matches include games against Bangladesh on February 20 and New Zealand on March 2, also likely to be hosted in Dubai.

Pakistan, the defending champions, wil?l begin their campaign on February 19 against New Zealand in Karachi. They will? play their final group-stage match against Bangladesh on February 27 in Rawalpindi.

Tournament structure and schedule

The tournament features two groups:

Group A: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and New Zealand.
Group B: Afghanistan, Australia, England and South Africa

Matches outside India’s schedule will be held across Pakistan in Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi.

The semi-finals are slated for March 4 and 5, with a reserve day allocated only for the second semi-final. If India qualifies for the semi-finals, their match will be hosted in the UAE; otherwise, it will ??take place in Pakistan. The final is scheduled for March 9 in Lahore, with a provision to shift to the UAE if India makes it to? the final.

Also READ: Joe Root returns as England announces ODI squad for Cha??mpions Trophy 2025 and India tour

Hybrid model agreement

The Champions Trophy 2025 will operate under a hybrid hosting model. Under this arrangement, Pakistan’s matches in ICC events hosted by India until 2027 will also be played at neutral venues. This model ensures neutrality for both countries’ matches, particularly during the knockouts.

The agreement extends to future ICC events, including the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup in India, the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, and the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup in Pakistan.

This innovative approach aims to balance cricket?ing ties amidst political sensitivities, ensuring the participation of both nations while providing a neutral ground for their high-stakes encounters.

Also READ: Saim Ayub’s stellar ton leads Pakistan to a historic ODI whitewash over South Africa

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Joe Root has made a much-anticipated comeback to England’s ODI setup for the first time since the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. The star batter has been named in the 15-member squad for the Champions Trophy 2025, which will also feature in a three-match ODI series against India ahead of the global event.

No place for Ben Stokes in England’s ODI squad

Ben Stokes, England’s Test captain, was also under consideration for a recall. However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has clarified that Stokes was not picked due to a hamstring injury sustained during the final Test against New Zealand in Wellington.

Meanwhile, Root’s inclusion marks a return to the 50-over format after England’s disappointing World Cup campaign in 2023, where the team failed to defend their title. Root had a modest tournament, scoring 276 runs at an average of 30.66. Following the World Cup, England shifted focus towards nurturing younger talent in the format. However, with Brendon McCullum stepping in as the new all-format head coach, Root has been reinstated to the squad, signalling a blend of experience and youth in the team’s approach.

England’s squad boasts a formidable pace attack, spearheaded by Mark Wood and Jofra Archer. Supporting them are Saqib Mahmood, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse and Jamie Overton. Rising star Jacob Bethell has earned his maiden ICC tournament call-up following impressive performances in recent months. Jamie Smith has also been included, while versatile player Will Jacks has been overlooked.

The ODI series against India will serve as vital preparation for the Cha?m??pions Trophy. The matches are scheduled for February 6, 9, and 12, setting the stage for intense cricketing action between two formidable sides.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025 – BCCI and PCB finally agree to host India-Pakistan games at a neutral venue

England’s ODI squad for the India tour and Champions Trophy 2025

Jos Buttler (captain), Phil Salt, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Liam Livingstone, Jamie Smith, Jacob Bethell, Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, ??Saqib Mah?mood, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid

With the return of experienced campaig??ners and a mix of fresh talent, England will aim to regain their dominance in the ODI format. Fans will eagerly watch h??ow this squad performs in the challenging subcontinental conditions against India and in the high-stakes Champions Trophy.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025 – Ahmed Shehzad comes up with a unique idea for matches between India and Pakistan

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