The Champions Trophy 2025 is just three days away, and fans are buzzing with excitement. The tournament will last 19 days and feature the best eight One Day International (ODI) teams fighting for the championship title. This event is special because Pakistan is hosting an International Cricket Council (ICC) tournament for the first time since 1996, while Dubai will serve as a neutral ground for India’s games. Matches will take place in Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Dubai.
The eight teams are divided into two groups. Group A has Bangladesh, India, New Zealand, and Pakistan. Group B includes Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa. The semi-finals will be held on March 4 in Dubai and March 5 in Lahore, with the final match taking place on March 9 in Lahore. If India makes it to the final, the location will change to Dubai.
As teams prepare, let’s look at the top bowlers to watch out for:
– Afghanistan: Rashid Khan
At just 26 years old, Rashid is already a legend! He has taken 198 wickets in 111 ODIs. His average is only 19, and he has an amazing economy rate of 4.2. In 2024, he took 15 wickets in 8 matches at an average of 12. Afghanistan is counting on him to perform well against stronger teams.
– Australia: Adam Zampa
Since Australia is missing some key players, Adam Zampa is now the main bowler. He has 181 wickets in 108 ODIs and grabbed 53 of those in the last two years.
– Bangladesh: Mustafizur Rahman
Mustafizur is a left-arm pacer with 172 wickets from 107 ODIs. He has five five-wicket hauls and is skilled at using slower balls, making him a threat to other teams.
– England: Mark Wood
Mark Wood is known for his lightning-fast bowling, often reaching 150 km/h. With 79 wickets from 68 ODIs, his pace could trouble batters on Pakistan’s pitches.
– India: Mohammed Shami
After an injury, Shami is back and ready to lead India’s bowling attack. He took 24 wickets in the last ODI World Cup, and he needs to get back into form quickly.
– New Zealand: Matt Henry
Matt Henry is in fantastic shape. With 155 wickets in 87 ODIs and an economical bowling rate, he will help New Zealand as they miss some senior players.
– Pakistan: Shaheen Afridi
Shaheen is Pakistan’s top bowler. He is deadly with new balls and especially effective in the dying overs. He has taken 125 wickets in 62 ODIs, and his recent form shows he can lead his team.
– South Africa: Kagiso Rabada
Rabada has been a key player for South Africa for almost ten years, collecting 162 wickets from 103 ODIs. His pace and accuracy will be essential for South Africa’s success in the tournament.
The Champions Trophy promises to be an exciting event with top teams and amazing talent on display!
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