The ICC Champions Trophy is back, reviving a tournament that many thought was long gone. As it resurfaces in Pakistan after nearly eight years, its return is a testament to its resilience in the ever-evolving cricketing landscape. Often overshadowed by the World Cup and the rise of T20 cricket, the Champions Trophy remains a fast-paced and entertaining spectacle, featuring the top eight teams from the last 50-over World Cup.
With 15 matches packed into just 19 days, the tournament offers a sharp contrast to the grueling seven-week World Cup. Pakistan, the host nation, is welcoming its first major men’s ICC event in 28 years, marking another step forward from the security concerns that had kept major international cricket away for so long. Significant investments have been made to upgrade venues in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi, underscoring the importance of this event for Pakistan cricket.
However, one major storyline surrounding the tournament is India’s decision to play all their matches in the UAE rather than in Pakistan, citing security concerns. This not only shifts the high-profile India-Pakistan clash to Dubai but also grants India a strategic advantage, allowing them to tailor their squad specifically for UAE conditions. A spin-heavy lineup has been chosen accordingly, though the absence of Jasprit Bumrah due to injury is a notable setback.
The composition of Group B presents another controversial issue. Australia, South Africa, and England are uneasy about facing Afghanistan, given the ongoing human rights concerns in the country. Despite such tensions, Afghanistan remains a full ICC member, and no teams are expected to withdraw.
India enters the tournament as the favorite, looking to add another title to the T20 World Cup they won last year. The team’s recent dominance in white-ball cricket, including a commanding 7-1 victory over England in their latest series, highlights their strength. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli potentially playing their final 50-over tournament, India is aiming for a historic triumph.
Defending champions Pakistan, buoyed by home support, will look to replicate their stunning 2017 success. Australia, the reigning ODI World Cup winners, should be among the strongest contenders but will have to cope without key pacers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc. South Africa, last year’s T20 World Cup runners-up, could be a dark horse, while England will hope to rediscover their form on flatter wickets.
As the tournament kicks off in Karachi with Pakistan facing New Zealand, the road to the final remains unpredictable. The event is set to conclude on March 9, though the final’s location depends on India’s progress. Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain—the Champions Trophy refuses to fade away and will be back once again in 2029, this time in India.
