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He ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to return to the cricket calendar after an eight-year hiatus, promising exciting encounters between the worldโs leading cricketing nations. Scheduled to take place in Pakistan This much-awaited tournament has already caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts, former players and analysts across the world. Known for its compact format and competitive edge, the Champions Trophy brings together the top eight ODI teams, creating a stage where every match holds immense importance.
As the countdown begins, several cricket experts and former cricketers have shared their predictions, fueling discussions about which teams are likely to shine in the tournament. With Pakistan hosting the event for the first time, the focus is firmly on the home team and their ability to take advantage of the familiar conditions. The tournament is also expected to reignite fierce rivalries, particularly between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the competition.
Sikandar Razaโs first two semi-finalist predictions
Adding his voice to the growing chorus of predictions, Zimbabweโs T20I captain, Sikandar Razahas named Pakistan and India as the two main semi-finalists of the Champions Trophy. In an exclusive interview with Cricket Pakistan, Raza praised the quality and talent of both teams, emphasizing their potential to dominate the tournament. โI think Pakistan and India will do well in the Champions Trophy. โBoth teams have the quality and talent to dominate this format.โ Raza commented.
Raza expressed particular confidence in Pakistanโs youth team, highlighting their recent performances and strength at home. โI know itโs a work in progress with this young team, but theyโve shown they can win, especially at home.โ said. Pakistanโs ability to perform under pressure in familiar conditions could make it a formidable force in the competition.
India, on the other hand, has a balanced mix of seasoned activists and rising stars. With their recent successes in bilateral series and ICC tournaments, they are expected to pose a strong challenge to Pakistan and other top teams.
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Other semi-finalists for the 2025 Champions Trophy
While Raza placed Pakistan and India as clear favorites, he also recognized the strength of Australia and New Zealand. โAustralia cannot be ruled out. โThey recently won the World Cup in India and their experience in these types of tournaments makes them a threat.โ Raza concluded.
Australiaโs ability to adapt to different conditions and its deep pool of experienced players make it a perennial contender in global tournaments. New Zealand, known for their consistency in ICC events, also earned Raza mention as a possible semi-finalist. With a full squad and a reputation for overachieving, the Kiwis are expected to challenge the favorites and maintain their status as one of the toughest teams in cricket.
ALSO READ: New Zealandโs Rachin Ravindra predicts Champions Trophy 2025 finalists
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