ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Kohli and Rohit’s Final Act?
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is finally back after eight years, with eight teams competing based on their rankings in the 2023 ODI World Cup. Pakistan, the defending champions, will host the tournament, which also marks Afghanistan’s debut. However, Sri Lanka failed to qualify for the first time in history.
The tournament comes with exciting narratives, from host Pakistan aiming for glory to speculation around veteran players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who might be featuring in their last ICC event.
8 Key Things to Know About ICC Champions Trophy 2025
- Back After 8 Years The ICC Champions Trophy makes a much-anticipated return after its last edition in 2017. Previously replaced by the idea of a World Test Championship, the Champions Trophy’s reinstatement brings back excitement for cricket fans globally.
- Defending Champions – Pakistan Pakistan heads into the tournament as defending champions, having won their first title in 2017 by defeating India with a staggering 180-run margin. Under Mohammad Rizwan’s leadership, the team looks to replicate its success despite major changes since their last triumph, with only Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman as constants from the 2017 squad.
- First ICC Tournament in Pakistan Since 1996 This year’s Champions Trophy is historic as Pakistan hosts its first major ICC tournament since the 1996 World Cup. The last planned ICC event in Pakistan was shifted to South Africa following the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team.
- UAE to Host India’s Matches Due to diplomatic constraints, India’s matches will not take place in Pakistan. Instead, the ICC adopted a hybrid model, with the UAE serving as a neutral venue for all Indian games. This arrangement ensures both countries continue participating without logistical challenges.
- Afghanistan’s Historic Debut Afghanistan makes history with its first-ever qualification for the Champions Trophy, securing their spot by finishing sixth in the 2023 ODI World Cup. Their journey will be closely followed, marking a significant milestone for Afghan cricket.
- Format: Only 3 Group Games Per Team Each team will play three group-stage matches, as the ICC sticks to the 2006 format. The top two teams from each of the two groups will advance to the semifinals, followed by the final showdown to determine the winner.
- Kohli and Rohit’s Potential Farewell Speculations abound that this might be the final ICC event for Indian cricketing legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. With emerging talents and their recent dip in form, fans eagerly await their performance, hoping they leave the ODI format on a high note.
- Notable Absentees Due to Injuries Injuries have impacted several teams, with India missing star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Australia faces the biggest setback, with five key players, including Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, ruled out. In total, 12 players from various teams will miss the tournament.
Can Pakistan Defend Their Title?
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy promises thrilling cricket and emotional moments, especially if it turns out to be the swan song for legends like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. As the tournament unfolds, fans will keep a close eye on the defending champions Pakistan and new entrants Afghanistan.
With all the drama, milestones, and history at stake, this year’s Champions Trophy is set to be a tournament to remember. Which team are you rooting for?
Share your predictions and let us know who you think will lift the trophy!
