India Emerges as Top Contender for Champions Trophy 2025
With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 underway, India stands out as the team to beat. Former cricketers Eoin Morgan and Shane Watson have backed Rohit Sharma’s squad to clinch the title, despite the absence of key pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Meanwhile, Pakistan is seen as a dark horse, benefiting from home conditions.
Eoin Morgan: India is the “Out and Out Favourite”
Speaking at the International Masters League’s Captain’s Day event, Eoin Morgan placed India at the top of the favorites list. He emphasized their squad depth and recent ICC tournament successes as key factors.
“India is the best-positioned team across all squads. They are out-and-out favorites. I can’t see any weaknesses in their lineup, which has been the case for their last few tournaments. Winning trophies builds confidence, and once you’ve done it, you believe you can do it again.”
Morgan highlighted India’s dominance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where they remained unbeaten until the final, and their triumph in the 2024 T20 World Cup as proof of their strength.
Shane Watson: Hardik Pandya Strengthens India’s Squad
Shane Watson echoed Morgan’s views, calling India the strongest team in the tournament. He also pointed to Hardik Pandya’s return as a key factor in their balance.
“India is the favorite this time. The inclusion of Hardik Pandya as a fast-bowling all-rounder strengthens them. Losing Bumrah is a setback, but their squad is almost identical to the one that dominated the last ODI World Cup.”
While India boasts a strong lineup, Watson also warned about the challenge from Australia, despite injuries to key bowlers like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Marsh, and Mitchell Starc.
“Australia’s batting is very strong, but there are concerns about their bowling. Still, they know how to perform in big tournaments. Don’t be surprised if they reach the final stages.”
Pakistan: The Dark Horse in Home Conditions
Morgan acknowledged Pakistan’s home advantage, making them a serious contender.
“You can never rule Pakistan out, especially in home conditions. They have a strong bowling attack, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, but consistency remains a concern.”
He also mentioned that England has an outside chance but faces challenges under new leadership.
“England has struggled for a while, and with Brendon McCullum recently taking over, it’s tough to achieve immediate success.”
England vs. Australia: A Crucial Matchup
Morgan identified the England vs. Australia clash as a pivotal moment in the tournament.
“England faces Australia first, and with Cummins and Marcus Stoinis missing, the winner of this match could gain significant momentum. If England finds form, they could surprise many.”
Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule
The tournament kicked off on February 19, with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi. India will begin their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 at the Dubai International Stadium.
Key Takeaways:
- India is the tournament favorite, with a balanced squad and recent ICC success.
- Hardik Pandya’s return strengthens India despite Jasprit Bumrah’s absence.
- Pakistan is a dark horse, benefiting from home conditions.
- Australia’s injuries pose challenges, but they remain a dangerous team.
- England vs. Australia could be a defining match in the tournament.
For more updates, stay tuned to our Champions Trophy 2025 coverage!