With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 quick approaching, cricket fanatics worldwide are eagerly analyzing the prospects of the eight taking part groups. Scheduled to be performed in Pakistan and UAE from February 19 to March 9, this version marks the match’s return after an eight-year hiatus. Pakistan, being the host of the worldwide occasion, will enter the competitors as one of many strongest contenders for the coveted title, given their present title reign within the prestigious competitors.
Pakistan’s current kind in ODI cricket
Pakistan have proven a blended but promising efficiency in ODIs since their disappointing exit from the 2023 World Cup. They’ve received eight out of their final 12 matches, together with a 2-1 collection victory in opposition to Australia and a 2-0 clear sweep in opposition to South Africa, each away from dwelling. These outcomes spotlight their potential to dominate in acquainted situations. Nonetheless, their current tri-series efficiency at dwelling, the place they misplaced two out of three matches to New Zealand, raised issues about consistency. Regardless of this, the group’s capacity to chase down a large 353-run goal in opposition to South Africa within the tri-series, led by Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha’s centuries, underscores their resilience and batting depth.
Squad composition and key absences
Pakistan’s squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 is a mix of expertise and rising expertise. Led by captain Rizwan, the group options stalwarts like Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Shaheen Afridi. Nonetheless, the absence of in-form opener Saim Ayub attributable to harm has compelled a reshuffle within the high order, with Babar prone to open alongside Fakhar. The recall of Khushdil Shah and Faheem Ashraf has drawn criticism, given their inconsistent performances. Moreover, the shortage of a second specialist spinner, with Abrar Ahmed being the one possibility, could possibly be a big weak point on spin-friendly pitches.
Pakistan’s efficiency in Champions Trophy historical past
Pakistan have a storied historical past within the Champions Trophy, with their most notable achievement being their title win in 2017. Underneath Sarfaraz Ahmed’s captaincy, they defeated India in a memorable last, due to Fakhar Zaman’s century and a dominant bowling show. This victory stays a supply of inspiration for the present squad. Pakistan additionally reached the semi-finals in 2004 and 2009, showcasing their capacity to carry out in high-pressure tournaments.
Fixtures, venues, and opponents
Pakistan’s group-stage matches in Group A will likely be high-octane encounters in opposition to India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. They may open their marketing campaign in opposition to New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi, adopted by a marquee conflict in opposition to India on February 23 in Dubai. Their last group match will likely be in opposition to Bangladesh on February 27 in Rawalpindi. Enjoying at dwelling, Pakistan will profit from acquainted situations and passionate native assist, however the stress to carry out will likely be immense.
Additionally READ: CT 2025: Pakistan’s document within the historical past of ICC Champions Trophy
Evaluating Pakistan’s group-stage rivals
New Zealand
Energy: New Zealand are identified for its consistency and adaptableness in ICC tournaments. With skilled gamers like Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, and Daryl Mitchell, they possess a balanced batting lineup. Their tempo assault, that includes Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry, provides depth, whereas Mitchell Santner’s spin supplies management within the center overs.
Weak point: The absence of Tim Southee and Trent Boult leaves their tempo assault comparatively inexperienced. Moreover, their center order generally struggles to speed up in essential moments, which could possibly be a vulnerability in high-pressure video games.
Menace: New Zealand’s disciplined bowling and strategic gameplay make them a harmful opponent. Their capacity to take advantage of swing-friendly situations might bother Pakistan’s high order.
India
Energy: India boast a formidable batting lineup that includes Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill. Their spin assault, led by Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja, is among the greatest on this planet. Regardless of Jasprit Bumrah’s absence, their depth in expertise makes them a robust contender.
Weak point: The shortage of a dependable fifth bowling possibility and the inexperience of their tempo assault with out Bumrah could possibly be exploited. Moreover, their historical past of faltering in knockout levels stays a priority.
Menace: India’s spin-heavy technique and talent to dominate in subcontinent-like situations in Dubai pose a big problem. Their current 3-0 collection win over England highlights their kind and confidence.
Bangladesh
Energy: Bangladesh’s power lie of their bowling assault, that includes Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Mustafizur Rahman. Their skilled gamers like Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur Rahim present stability within the center order.
Weak point: Inconsistency in batting and the shortage of energy hitters within the decrease order are main weaknesses. Their current ODI kind, together with losses to Afghanistan and West Indies, raises issues.
Menace: Bangladesh’s capacity to take advantage of spin-friendly situations and their improved fielding might make them a difficult opponent, particularly if their high order fires.
