The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 is one of the most anticipated cricket tournaments in recent years. After an eight-year hiatus, the tournament is back, bringing together eight of the world’s top teams in Pakistan, starting on February 19, 2025. As the host nation and the defending champions, Pakistan will aim to retain their title against fierce competition.
This article explores the confirmed squads for each participating nation, providing detailed insights into the players, their strengths, and their potential impact on the tournament. This guide includes 10 FAQs and covers over 100 related keywords to ensure readers gain comprehensive knowledge about the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squads.
Tournament Format and Groups
The tournament will feature two groups of four teams each:
Group A:
- Pakistan
- India
- Bangladesh
- New Zealand
Group B:
- Australia
- England
- South Africa
- Afghanistan
Each team will play three group-stage matches. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, culminating in a grand finale.
Group A Squads
India
The Indian squad is yet to be announced. However, fans eagerly anticipate the inclusion of key players such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah, who have consistently delivered stellar performances in ICC events.
Bangladesh
Squad:
- Nazmul Hossain Shanto (c)
- Soumya Sarkar
- Tanzid Hasan
- Tawhid Hridoy
- Mushfiqur Rahim
- MD Mahmud Ullah
- Jaker Ali Anik
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz
- Rishad Hossain
- Taskin Ahmed
- Mustafizur Rahman
- Parvez Hossai Emon
- Nasum Ahmed
- Tanzim Hasan Sakib
- Nahid Rana
Key Players:
- Mushfiqur Rahim: Known for his composure and experience, Rahim will play a vital role in stabilizing the middle order.
- Taskin Ahmed: A speedster who can trouble batters with his pace and swing.
New Zealand
Squad:
- Mitchell Santner (c)
- Michael Bracewell
- Mark Chapman
- Devon Conway
- Lockie Ferguson
- Matt Henry
- Tom Latham
- Daryl Mitchell
- Will O’Rourke
- Glenn Phillips
- Rachin Ravindra
- Ben Sears
- Nathan Smith
- Kane Williamson
- Will Young
Key Players:
- Kane Williamson: A consistent performer and strategic captain.
- Lockie Ferguson: His express pace and wicket-taking ability make him a match-winner.
Pakistan
The squad for Pakistan is yet to be announced. However, as the host nation, Pakistan is expected to field a strong team featuring Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan.
Group B Squads
Afghanistan
Squad:
- Hashmatullah Shahidi (c)
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Sediqullah Atal
- Rahmat Shah
- Ikram Alikhil
- Gulbadin Naib
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Mohammad Nabi
- Rashid Khan
- AM Ghazanfar
- Noor Ahmad
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
- Farid Malik
- Naveed Zadran
Reserves:
- Darwish Rasooli
- Nangyal Kharoti
- Bilal Sami
Key Players:
- Rashid Khan: A world-class leg-spinner and an integral part of Afghanistan’s success.
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz: An explosive opener with the ability to dominate the powerplay.
England
Squad:
- Jos Buttler (c)
- Jofra Archer
- Gus Atkinson
- Jacob Bethell
- Harry Brook
- Brydon Carse
- Ben Duckett
- Jamie Overton
- Jamie Smith
- Liam Livingstone
- Adil Rashid
- Joe Root
- Saqib Mahmood
- Phil Salt
- Mark Wood
Key Players:
- Jos Buttler: A destructive batter and a sharp tactician as captain.
- Mark Wood: His raw pace and ability to bowl in the death overs make him a key asset.
Australia
Squad:
- Pat Cummins (c)
- Alex Carey
- Nathan Ellis
- Aaron Hardie
- Josh Hazlewood
- Travis Head
- Josh Inglis
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Mitchell Marsh
- Glenn Maxwell
- Matt Short
- Steve Smith
- Mitchell Starc
- Marcus Stoinis
- Adam Zampa
Key Players:
- Pat Cummins: A world-class bowler and inspiring leader.
- Glenn Maxwell is an all-rounder who can change the game with bat and ball.
South Africa
Squad:
- Temba Bavuma (c)
- Tony de Zorzi
- Marco Jansen
- Heinrich Klaasen
- Keshav Maharaj
- Aiden Markram
- David Miller
- Wiaan Mulder
- Lungi Ngidi
- Anrich Nortje
- Kagiso Rabada
- Ryan Rickelton
- Tabraiz Shamsi
- Tristan Stubbs
- Rassie van der Dussen
Key Players:
- Kagiso Rabada: A strike bowler with the ability to deliver under pressure.
- David Miller: A seasoned finisher who thrives in high-stakes matches.
FAQs
- What is the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 schedule?
The tournament begins on February 19, 2025, and concludes on March 9, 2025. - Where are the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 being held?
Pakistan is hosting the tournament. - Who are the defending champions?
Having won the previous edition in 2017, Pakistan is the defending champions. - How many teams are participating?
Eight teams are participating. - Who is leading the England squad?
Jos Buttler is the captain of England. - What are the groups for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
Group A: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and New Zealand; Group B: Australia, England, South Africa, and Afghanistan. - Which team is considered the favourite?
All teams have strong squads, but Pakistan and India are considered top contenders. - When is the final match?
The final is scheduled for March 9, 2025. - Who are the notable players to watch?
Players like Babar Azam, Virat Kohli, Jos Buttler, and Rashid Khan are key players to watch. - How can fans watch the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
Fans can watch the matches live on official ICC broadcasters and streaming platforms.
Conclusion
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises thrilling cricket action with world-class players and intense rivalries. With squads boasting immense talent and experience, the tournament is set to be a spectacle. Stay tuned for updates as we get closer to the event!