ICC Champions Trophy Tips - Men in Blue could be worthy finalists

From February 19 to March 9, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, and South Africa will battle for the title of a tournament that was lost in the annals. Teams are divided into two groups, with Group A comprising Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and New Zealand. In Group B, Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa battle it out to be among the top two in the group and qualify for the semi-finals.

As the Champions Trophy gets ready for a rebirth, we look forward to which sides are likely to be among the favourites.

The current World Champions and the joint-most successful champions at this tournament, Australia always start any ICC tournament as one of the favourites.

Their preparation has been laborious, though, as five key players became unavailable, including regular captain Pat Cummins. They still have one of the most dangerous batting units with the likes of Travis Head, Steve Smith, and Glenn Maxwell set to give them an edge.

That may have to be complemented by an inexperienced bowling unit where spinner Adam Zampa looms as the most reliable. The Sri Lankan tour didn’t go as planned, but Australia always makes it a point to lift their game in ICC tournaments.

Prediction: Semi-final.

Name one ICC men’s tournament where the Kiwis haven’t been underdogs! They perhaps thrive on that tag and get the best out of these situations.

Take a look at how they performed in the tri-series involving Pakistan and South Africa in the lead-up to this tournament. New Zealand have covered almost every base that you need in Asia—solid batters, aggressive middle-order, spinners who can deliver, and impeccable team spirit.

The only downside is the lack of a player who can be a tournament winner. They do compensate it through a combination of players who punch above their weight, but is that enough?

Prediction: Final

They were the best team in the 2023 ODI World Cup until losing to Australia in the final, and India will look to go the distance here. They have a slight advantage that they play all their matches in one venue—Dubai.

That hasn’t always worked to their advantage, but India will feel they have the tools to win this tournament. Losing ace bowler Jasprit Bumrah to an injury is a massive blow, but like they showed against England in a 3-0 series win at home, they can be formidable in these conditions.

Questions remain over the form of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, but they are a side overflowing with talent. Having lost in the final of this tournament’s last edition to their archrivals, can India get it right this time?

Prediction: Final