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New Zealand off-road Rachin Ravindra has made his predictions for the long-awaited ICC Champions Trophy 2025which will take place in Pakistan and Dubai from February 19 to March 9.
The Champions Trophy returns after eight years
The Champions Trophy will mark their return after an eight-year hiatus. The tournament will feature 15 matches played in Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi and Dubai. The format includes eight teams divided into two groups, and the stakes are high in each match, similar to knockout games. Group A includes Pakistan, IndiaNew Zealand and Bangladeshwhile group B presents Afghanistan, South Africa, England and Australia. With a knockout style format, each game has immense importance, adding to the excitement of the tournament.
Rachin Ravindra names the two finalists
In an exclusive interview with ICC, Rachin backed New Zealand and Australia to meet in the final. Rachin expressed confidence in the competitive strength of both teams and highlighted Australiaโs dominance in all formats and New Zealandโs ability to excel on the global stage. While refraining from naming hosts Pakistan or number one in the world India as finalists, said he is looking forward to an exciting Trans-Tasman derby. Rachin, a key player in the 2023 ODI World Cup with over 500 runs, is optimistic about New Zealandโs chances of lifting the prestigious title.
โItโs always very difficult to predict (the finalists) because you always want to say New Zealand because youโre involved. So hopefully weโll be there. I mean, weโll take it game by game, and in the other groups, itโs pretty hard to rule out the likes of Australia. I think they are a really good team and they have shown how strong they are in all formats. The reigning ODI World Cup champions too. So hopefully it will be a Trans-Tasman derby.โ Rachin said.
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New Zealand schedule and challenges
New Zealand will begin their campaign with the opening match against Pakistan on February 19 in Karachi, followed by a clash against Bangladesh on February 24 in Rawalpindi. They will conclude their group stage against India on March 2 in Dubai. Rachin emphasized the unique nature of the Champions Trophy, where each match feels like a knockout, and expressed his excitement at competing in such a high-stakes tournament. The Blackcaps, known for their adaptability and resilience, aim to secure a place in the final and potentially take on Australia in what promises to be an exciting conclusion.
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