ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025: Teams and Squads Announced

The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 marks its return after an eight-year break, with Pakistan hosting the event starting February 19th. As the host nation and the defending champions, Pakistan seeks to reclaim the title against the world’s best cricket teams. The tournament format includes eight teams divided into two groups, with each team aiming to reach the knockout stages.
Tournament Structure
The tournament features eight participating nations divided into two groups:
– Group A: Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and New Zealand.
– Group B: Afghanistan, England, Australia, and South Africa.
The tournament will commence with the opening match between Pakistan and New Zealand on February 19th in Karachi. This match is expected to set the tone for an exciting series of games among the leading cricketing nations.
Squads Overview
Group A Teams
– **India**: Led by captain Rohit Sharma, the Indian squad is packed with talent, including prominent players like Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah.
– **Bangladesh**: The team is captained by Nazmul Hossain Shanto, looking to make a significant impact in the tournament.
– **New Zealand**: Under the leadership of captain Mitchell Santner, the team includes key player Kane Williamson in their ranks.
– **Pakistan**: Captained by Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan’s team features star players such as Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi.
Group B Teams
– **Afghanistan**: Led by captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, the Afghan team enters the tournament with determination and prowess.
– **England**: The English squad, captained by Jos Buttler, includes exceptional talent like Joe Root and Jofra Archer.
– **Australia**: Under the captaincy of Pat Cummins, Australia’s team is highlighted by seasoned players like Steve Smith and Mitchell Starc.
– **South Africa**: The team is led by Temba Bavuma, with the dynamic Kagiso Rabada playing a critical role in their campaign.
Conclusion
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to deliver thrilling cricket action as these top teams compete for the prestigious title. Each squad has been carefully selected to put forth their best effort in securing victories on the international stage. Cricket fans worldwide eagerly await the outcomes of this esteemed tournament, hoping for memorable performances and intense matchups.