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With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 fast approaching, cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly analyzing the prospects of the eight participating teams. Scheduled to be played in Pakistan and UAE from February 19 to March 9, this edition marks the tournament’s return after an eight-year hiatus. Pakistan, being the host of the global event, will enter the competition as one of the strongest contenders for the coveted title, given their current title reign in the prestigious competition.
Pakistan’s recent form in ODI cricket
Pakistan have shown a mixed yet promising performance in ODIs since their disappointing exit from the 2023 World Cup. They have won eight out of their last 12 matches, including a 2-1 series victory against Australia and a 2-0 clean sweep against South Africa, both away from home. These results highlight their potential to dominate in familiar conditions. However, their recent tri-series performance at home, where they lost two out of three matches to New Zealand, raised concerns about consistency. Despite this, the team’s ability to chase down a massive 353-run target against South Africa in 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 blend of experience and emerging talent. Led by captain Rizwan, the team features stalwarts like Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Shaheen Afridi. However, the absence of in-form opener Saim Ayub due to injury has forced a reshuffle in the top order, with Babar likely to open alongside Fakhar. The recall of Khushdil Shah and Faheem Ashraf has drawn criticism, given their inconsistent performances. Additionally, the lack of a second specialist spinner, with Abrar Ahmed being the only option, could be a significant weakness on spin-friendly pitches.
Pakistan’s performance in Champions Trophy history
Pakistan have a storied history in the Champions Trophy, with their most notable achievement being their title win in 2017. Under Sarfaraz Ahmed’s captaincy, they defeated India in a memorable final, thanks to Fakhar Zaman’s century and a dominant bowling display. This victory remains a source of inspiration for the current squad. Pakistan also reached the semi-finals in 2004 and 2009, showcasing their ability to perform in high-pressure tournaments.
Fixtures, venues, and opponents
Pakistan’s group-stage matches in Group A will be high-octane encounters against India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. They will open their campaign against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi, followed by a marquee clash against India on February 23 in Dubai. Their final group match will be against Bangladesh on February 27 in Rawalpindi. Playing at home, Pakistan will benefit from familiar conditions and passionate local support, but the pressure to perform will be immense.
Also READ: CT 2025: Pakistan’s record in the history of ICC Champions Trophy
Evaluating Pakistan’s group-stage rivals
New Zealand
Strength: New Zealand are known for its consistency and adaptability in ICC tournaments. With experienced players like Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, and Daryl Mitchell, they possess a balanced batting lineup. Their pace attack, featuring Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry, adds depth, while Mitchell Santner’s spin provides control in the middle overs.
Weakness: The absence of Tim Southee and Trent Boult leaves their pace attack relatively inexperienced. Additionally, their middle order sometimes struggles to accelerate in crucial moments, which could be a vulnerability in high-pressure games.
Threat: New Zealand’s disciplined bowling and strategic gameplay make them a dangerous opponent. Their ability to exploit swing-friendly conditions could trouble Pakistan’s top order.
India
Strength: India boast a formidable batting lineup featuring Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill. Their spin attack, led by Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja, is one of the best in the world. Despite Jasprit Bumrah’s absence, their depth in talent makes them a strong contender.
Weakness: The lack of a reliable fifth bowling option and the inexperience of their pace attack without Bumrah could be exploited. Additionally, their history of faltering in knockout stages remains a concern.
Threat: India’s spin-heavy strategy and ability to dominate in subcontinent-like conditions in Dubai pose a significant challenge. Their recent 3-0 series win over England highlights their form and confidence.
Bangladesh
Strength: Bangladesh’s strength lie in their bowling attack, featuring Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Mustafizur Rahman. Their experienced players like Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur Rahim provide stability in the middle order.
Weakness: Inconsistency in batting and the lack of power hitters in the lower order are major weaknesses. Their recent ODI form, including losses to Afghanistan and West Indies, raises concerns.
Threat: Bangladesh’s ability to exploit spin-friendly conditions and their improved fielding could make them a tricky opponent, especially if their top order fires.
