The stage is set… the players are ready… and the fans are excited!
With a $2.24 million winner’s prize, national pride, and a prestigious trophy on the line, eight teams will compete in the much-anticipated 9th edition of the Champions Trophy.
As the tournament kicks off, all eyes will be on India, who begin their campaign against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20.
India enters the competition as the favorite. So, what makes the Men in Blue the team to beat in this grand event? Let’s find out!
The mega event had to overcome numerous hurdles, and Pakistan had to wait nearly three decades to host a major ICC tournament before the Champions Trophy returned to the international stage.
A hybrid model was introduced, with India not playing any of its matches in Pakistan due to geopolitical tensions between the two nations. If India reaches the final, it will be played in Dubai instead of Pakistan.
Series wins over Bangladesh, South Africa, and England—despite a setback in Sri Lanka—highlight India’s dominance in the white-ball format.
Fans will hope that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli continue their rediscovered form with the bat, while young talents like Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer look to shine and progress.
India’s dressing room features a perfect blend of aggressive batsmen and crafty bowlers. The middle overs will be crucial, with spinners expected to play a pivotal role.
Though Jasprit Bumrah’s absence is a setback, India’s bowling attack remains well-equipped for Dubai’s conditions.
Pakistan poses the most significant challenge to India in the tournament. Playing in Dubai minimizes Pakistan’s home advantage, but they remain a formidable opponent.
Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar names India as the favorite but acknowledges threats from Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa.
New Zealand enters the tournament in high spirits after winning a tri-series in Pakistan. Historically, the Black Caps have exceeded expectations in ICC tournaments.
However, their bowling unit appears weaker following the retirements of Trent Boult and Tim Southee.
With India, Pakistan, and New Zealand competing for just two spots in the next stage, India will be eager to avenge their 2021 T20 World Cup loss to Pakistan in Dubai.
Everything seems to be falling into place for India—form, conditions, and squad depth. With momentum on their side, Rohit Sharma’s men are in prime position to claim the Champions Trophy.
After falling short in 2017, this could be their moment to go all the way.