ICC Champions Trophy 2025: India, Pakistan Squad Delays Buzz

The much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to make its grand return after an eight-year hiatus. Scheduled to kick off on February 19, this prestigious tournament will feature eight top cricketing nations divided into two groups. Despite the growing excitement among fans, the cricketing world is buzzing with speculation as both India and Pakistan have yet to announce their provisional squads.

Group Composition and Tournament Format

The Champions Trophy will feature two groups of four teams each.

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

The host nation, Pakistan, will stage the matches, while India’s games are set to take place in Dubai due to political tensions. The group-stage matches will determine which teams progress to the knockout rounds.

Why India and Pakistan Have Delayed Their Squad Announcements

The ICC had set January 12, 2025, as the deadline for submitting provisional squads. However, both India and Pakistan have yet to finalize their teams. Here’s why:

India’s Deliberation

India’s delay stems from injury concerns for key players like Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav. With the BCCI seeking an extension until January 19, fans and analysts are keenly watching the management’s approach to balancing fitness and form.

Pakistan’s Strategy

As defending champions, Pakistan aims to carefully assess its squad to uphold its title. Captain Babar Azam and head coach Mickey Arthur are reportedly fine-tuning their strategy, focusing on form and adaptability to home conditions.

Confirmed Squads of Other Teams

While India and Pakistan remain undecided, the other six teams have announced their squads. Here’s a quick look:

Group A

• New Zealand: Led by Mitchell Santner, the team boasts experienced players like Kane Williamson and promising talents like Rachin Ravindra.
• Bangladesh: Under the captaincy of Nazmul Hossain Shanto, the squad includes a mix of veterans like Mushfiqur Rahim and rising stars like Tawhid Hridoy.

Group B

• Featuring powerhouses like Jos Buttler and Jofra Archer, England remains a strong contender.
• Australia: Skipper Pat Cummins leads a balanced team with players like Steve Smith and Mitchell Starc forming the core.
• South Africa: Temba Bavuma’s team is well-rounded, with pacers like Kagiso Rabada and spinners like Tabraiz Shamsi.
• Afghanistan: Known for their spin strength, Afghanistan’s squad is led by Hashmatullah Shahidi and includes the iconic Rashid Khan.

Key Players to Watch in ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Indian Stars

• Rohit Sharma: As captain, his experience and leadership will be vital.
• Virat Kohli: A proven performer in ICC tournaments.

Pakistan Heroes

• Babar Azam: The backbone of Pakistan’s batting lineup.
• Shaheen Afridi: A matchwinner with the ball.

The Road Ahead

With less than six weeks to go, the spotlight remains on India and Pakistan. Their final squad announcements will likely shape predictions and betting odds for the tournament.

Also read ICC U-19 World Cup Dream Team Revealed!

FAQs

Q1. What is the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 schedule?

The tournament begins on February 19, 2025, with matches held across Pakistan and the UAE.

Q2. Why are India’s matches being held in Dubai?

Due to political tensions, India’s matches are relocated to Dubai.

Q3. Who are the defending champions?

Pakistan, having won the title in 2017, are the defending champions.