Kohli-Rohit’s Last ODI Dance? | Pakistan’s Homecoming Moment | Afghanistan’s Bold New Era
The wait is finally over! The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 kicks off today, marking the much-anticipated return of the high-stakes 50-over tournament after an eight-year break. Host nation Pakistan faces New Zealand in the tournament opener at the National Stadium in Karachi, setting the stage for a thrilling cricket spectacle.
With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma possibly playing their last ODI tournament, Afghanistan making its Champions Trophy debut, and India’s matches controversially moved to UAE, there’s no shortage of drama.
Let’s break down the 8 biggest talking points before the action begins!
ICC Champions Trophy Returns After 8 Years
The last time this tournament was played was in 2017, when Pakistan stunned India in the final. The Champions Trophy was shelved in favor of the World Test Championship, but its revival signals the importance of 50-over cricket in the modern era.
Originally called the ICC KnockOut Trophy, this tournament has been a fan favorite since its 1998 debut in Bangladesh.
Pakistan Defends Its Champions Trophy Crown
Pakistan comes into this tournament as the reigning champion, having dismantled India in the 2017 final with a commanding 180-run victory at The Oval.
- Key Pakistani Players to Watch:
- Babar Azam – Pakistan’s batting genius
- Mohammad Rizwan – Leading from the front as captain
- Shaheen Afridi – Lethal with the new ball
Can Pakistan repeat history and defend its title on home soil?
First Major ICC Event in Pakistan Since 1996
This is more than just a tournament—it’s a historic moment for Pakistan cricket. After nearly three decades of ICC events being played elsewhere, the country is finally hosting an official ICC event again.
Last ICC event in Pakistan? The 1996 Cricket World Cup, co-hosted with India and Sri Lanka.
However, Pakistan’s hosting dream comes with a twist—India will not play in Pakistan.
India’s Matches Shifted to UAE Amid Political Tensions
The biggest controversy of the tournament? India refuses to play in Pakistan.
Due to political tensions, the BCCI insisted on a hybrid hosting model, leading to all of India’s Champions Trophy 2025 matches being played in the UAE.
- Déjà vu? This is a repeat of the Asia Cup 2023, where India’s matches were also played outside Pakistan.
- Impact? While this avoids a political standoff, it dampens Pakistan’s hosting moment, with fans missing out on an India-Pakistan clash in Karachi or Lahore.
Afghanistan Makes History with Its Champions Trophy Debut
Afghanistan’s rise in world cricket continues! The team has qualified for its first-ever ICC Champions Trophy, after finishing 6th in the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Who Missed Out?
- Sri Lanka – Fails to qualify for the first time ever
- Netherlands – Also misses the cut
Afghanistan’s inclusion marks a shift in world cricket, proving they are no longer underdogs but serious contenders.
High-Stakes Format: Every Match Counts!
Unlike the ODI World Cup, this tournament has a short, unforgiving format:
- 8 teams split into 2 groups
- Each team plays just 3 group-stage matches
- Top 2 from each group qualify for the semi-finals
This means no second chances—a single bad game could send a team packing!
Kohli & Rohit’s ODI Farewell?
Is this the last time we see Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in an ODI tournament?
There’s growing speculation that India’s two greatest modern ODI players might not be part of the 2027 ODI World Cup.
- Why the speculation?
- Kohli’s and Rohit’s recent ODI form has been inconsistent
- Gautam Gambhir (India’s head coach) is pushing for fresh talent
- Young players like Shubman Gill & Yashasvi Jaiswal are knocking on the door
If this is their last dance, expect them to go all out for a fairy-tale finish!
Injuries Rock Multiple Teams
Injuries have already put several teams on the back foot, with top players missing out.
- Biggest Injury Casualties:
- India: Huge blow with Jasprit Bumrah ruled out
- Australia: Five key players missing, including Mitchell Starc & Pat Cummins
- South Africa: Kagiso Rabada sidelined
With so many stars out, squad depth will be key in deciding the next Champions Trophy winner!
Who Will Lift the Trophy?
With a historic host nation, high-stakes matchups, and cricket legends potentially making their ODI farewell, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to be a blockbuster tournament.
Who do you think will win? Will Pakistan defend its title? Can India silence critics in UAE? Or will a dark horse like Afghanistan shock the world?
