With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 set to kick off on February 19, cricket experts share their predictions on tournament favorites, and tips for leading performers in the competition.
Who Are the Tournament Favorites?
Speaking on Sky Sports, Nasser Hussain said, “Six weeks ago, I had Australia as my top pick, but with key players like Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Marcus Stoinis missing, they have lost significant firepower. Now, for me, India is the team to beat.”
India’s batting depth, strong spin attack, and recent 3-0 series win against England make them a formidable side. Plus, playing all their games in Dubai, without the need for travel, gives them a strategic advantage.
Michael Atherton concurred with Hussain. “India’s familiarity with Dubai’s conditions is a huge factor. With Jasprit Bumrah out, spin will be key, and India’s depth in this department gives them an edge.”
Picks for the Semi-Finals
Kevin Pietersen backed the hosts, stating the following as his picks for the semi finals when speaking to Star Sports. “Pakistan who are hosting the tournament, India, England and I want to go Australia“.
Former India player Suresh Raina has a different take, predicting “India, Australia, South Africa and Afghanistan,” while Murali Vijay sees “India, Pakistan, Australia and South Africa” making it to the semi-finals.
Cricketer-turned-analyst Aakash Chopra believes, “India and New Zealand from our group, South Africa and Afghanistan from the other” will advance, while former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar picks “South Africa, Australia, India and Pakistan” as his final four.
Deep Dasgupta offers a nuanced perspective. “From India’s group, I’d say India and Pakistan. From the other group, I was inclined to go Australia and South Africa. But, off-late, a lot of the SA bowlers have gone missing. So, I’m not too sure about them. Hence, I’m going to say Australia and England.”
Tournament Contenders
While Atherton sees India as clear favorites, he also believes New Zealand and South Africa could be strong contenders:
- New Zealand has experience in Pakistan and a balanced squad led by the tactical brilliance of Mitchell Santner.
- South Africa, when at full strength, can be a formidable force, boasting raw pace and explosive batting.
Top Performers to Watch
Leading Run-Scorer Prediction: India’s Virat Kohli or New Zealand’s Devon Conway
Leading Wicket-Taker Prediction: South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada or India’s Kuldeep Yadav
With thrilling matchups, high-stakes battles, and unpredictable drama, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be an unmissable spectacle. Watch it all unfold on Jio Hotstar.
