Champions Trophy 2025: Game-changers who could lead their teams to glory
Making a comeback after an eight-year gap, the tournament will feature 15 matches played across Pakistan and the UAE. With high-intensity clashes ahead, each team has a game-changing player who could be their X-factor in this prestigious tournament.
With only days left until the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, fans are eagerly anticipating the top eight teams¡ªBangladesh, India, Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan, England, Australia, and South Africa¡ªbattling for the trophy and the coveted white coat. Making a comeback after an eight-year gap, the tournament will feature 15 matches played across Pakistan and the UAE. With high-intensity clashes ahead, each team has a game-changing player who could be their X-factor in this prestigious tournament.
Rashid Khan (Afghanistan)
A proven match-winner, his lethal bowling, all-round skills, and leadership make him invaluable. With 198 ODI wickets at a 4.20 economy, and fresh off leading MI Cape Town to an SA20 title, Rashid is surely set to be Afghanistan's game-changer.
Marco Jansen (South Africa)
The 24-year-old left-arm pacer's bounce, movement, and finishing skills make him invaluable. With 41 ODI wickets and a solid batting average, he was a star in SA20 2025, winning Player of the Series award as well. His all-phase bowling and clutch performances will be crucial for South Africa.
Steve Smith (Australia)
With Pat Cummins likely out, this batter is set to lead Australia in the Champions Trophy 2025. His stellar form¡ªcenturies in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a BBL ton, and 270+ Test runs vs Sri Lanka¡ªmakes him a key asset. He has always been a proven performer in ICC tournaments.
Jos Buttler (England)
The captain could be a key player especially after England's ICC struggles and ODI setbacks since the 2023 World Cup. He struggled in the previous editions, scoring just 15 runs in 2013 and 94 in 2017. However, this time, he shoulders the responsibility of leading from the front.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz (Bangladesh)
The star all-rounder is capable of turning games with both bat and ball. His recent ODI form has been impressive, scoring 305 runs at 38.12 and taking eight wickets at an economy of 4.82 in 2024. His Player of the Tournament performance in BPL 2025 further highlights his impact.
Fakhar Zaman (Pakistan)
With his return to Pakistan's squad, he will hope to recreate his iconic 114-run knock from the 2017 final against India. Despite his absence from international cricket since the 2024 T20 World Cup, he remains confident in his comeback. In the ongoing Tri-Nation series, he showcased his form with an 84-run knock against New Zealand.
Mitchell Santner (New Zealand)
The all-rounder had a successful captaincy stint in Sri Lanka and remains a dependable left-arm spinner and middle-order batter. With spin-friendly conditions in Pakistan and the UAE, Santner's skills will be crucial. He has 112 ODI wickets at an economy of 4.84 and recently led his team to the Tri-Nation series final.
Shubman Gill (India)
After being made vice-captain, the 25-year-old is in top form, with back-to-back fifties against England. Having 2,475 runs in 49 ODIs at an average nearing 60, including six centuries, his ability to handle both pace and spin makes him vital. His 1,584 ODI runs in 2023 cemented his place in India's lineup.
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Karen Noronha is a versatile journalist with a passion for sports and K-pop. With over 7 years of experience at publications like IBTimes UK, DNA, and OTTPlay/DesiMartini, she seamlessly transitions between covering global athletic events and the dynamic world of K-pop.
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