The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to begin on February 19, 2025, featuring the top eight ODI teams competing across Pakistan and Dubai. With the tournament rapidly approaching, every team is in the thick of their preparations, aiming to fine-tune strategies, address weaknesses, and build momentum. Here’s an in-depth look at how each team is shaping up, their ODI performances since the 2023 World Cup, and their plans leading up to the tournament.
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India
India’s performance in ODIs since their runner-up finish in the 2023 World Cup has been inconsistent. With only six matches played, they’ve secured two wins but suffered three losses, including a disappointing series defeat to Sri Lanka. This shaky run has raised concerns, but India’s robust squad depth and star players make them perennial contenders.
To prepare for the Champions Trophy, India has scheduled a three-match series against England (on February 6, 9, and 12). These games will offer crucial match practice and an opportunity to regain form.
India’s ODI Record Since 2023 World Cup:
Matches Played | Wins | Losses | No Result |
---|---|---|---|
6 | 2 | 3 | 1 |
Pakistan
Pakistan has been a dominant force in ODIs post-World Cup, with three consecutive series victories, including a remarkable clean sweep against South Africa. Their solid form has been underpinned by a balanced squad and a deep batting lineup.
As hosts, Pakistan has the advantage of familiar conditions and has organized a tri-nation ODI series in February featuring New Zealand and South Africa, which will serve as critical preparation.
Pakistan’s ODI Record Since 2023 World Cup:
Matches Played | Wins | Losses | No Result |
---|---|---|---|
9 | 7 | 2 | 0 |
Australia
Reigning World Cup champions Australia continue to demonstrate their strength in ODIs, with a strong 7-4 win-loss record since the 2023 World Cup. However, the potential absence of Pat Cummins due to injury is a concern for their bowling attack.
Interestingly, Australia does not have any ODI matches scheduled in January or February, choosing to rely on training camps and player conditioning ahead of the Champions Trophy.
Australia’s ODI Record Since 2023 World Cup:
Matches Played | Wins | Losses | No Result |
---|---|---|---|
11 | 7 | 4 | 0 |
New Zealand
New Zealand has maintained a steady form, registering notable series victories against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Their balanced squad, known for adapting to different conditions, is gearing up for the Champions Trophy by participating in Pakistan’s tri-nation ODI series in February.
This exposure to varied conditions will be invaluable as the Kiwis aim to build momentum.
New Zealand’s ODI Record Since 2023 World Cup:
Matches Played | Wins | Losses | No Result |
---|---|---|---|
8 | 4 | 3 | 1 |
England
England’s ODI form has been lackluster, with several series losses since the 2023 World Cup. They’ve struggled to find consistency, losing to both the West Indies and Australia.
The three-match series against India in February is pivotal for England as they aim to rediscover their winning ways and shore up their squad for the Champions Trophy.
England’s ODI Record Since 2023 World Cup:
Matches Played | Wins | Losses | No Result |
---|---|---|---|
11 | 4 | 7 | 0 |
South Africa
South Africa’s ODI journey has been turbulent, with eight losses in their last 12 matches. Despite flashes of brilliance, they’ve struggled to maintain consistency.
Their participation in the tri-nation ODI series in Pakistan will provide an opportunity to rectify issues and gain crucial match practice.
South Africa’s ODI Record Since 2023 World Cup:
Matches Played | Wins | Losses | No Result |
---|---|---|---|
12 | 4 | 8 | 0 |
Bangladesh
Bangladesh has had a mixed run in ODIs, with results fluctuating against different opponents. While they’ve showcased potential, their inconsistency remains a challenge.
Unlike other teams, Bangladesh does not have any scheduled ODIs in January or February. Instead, they are relying on domestic training camps and inter-squad matches to finalize their preparations.
Bangladesh’s ODI Record Since 2023 World Cup:
Matches Played | Wins | Losses | No Result |
---|---|---|---|
12 | 4 | 8 | 0 |
Afghanistan
Afghanistan continues to rise as a formidable force in ODIs. Their historic victories during the 2023 World Cup and a recent series win over South Africa have proven their competitive edge.
Their consistency and adaptability in challenging conditions make them a dark horse in the Champions Trophy.
Afghanistan’s ODI Record Since 2023 World Cup:
Matches Played | Wins | Losses | No Result |
---|---|---|---|
15 | 8 | 5 | 2 |
What’s at Stake in Champions Trophy 2025?
The Champions Trophy is a test of not just skill but also strategy and adaptability. Teams like India and Australia will look to capitalize on their rich cricketing history, while emerging nations like Afghanistan aim to make their mark on the global stage.
For underperforming teams like England and South Africa, the tournament is a chance to reverse their fortunes and prove their mettle in high-stakes matches. With every team bringing its unique strengths and weaknesses, the 2025 Champions Trophy promises to be a thrilling spectacle.