Sourav Ganguly names this team as top contender for Champions Trophy 2025

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has named India as one of the favorites to win the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to take place in Pakistan and the UAE next month.  

In a recent interview, Ganguly highlighted India’s strong performances in recent tournaments, including the 50-over World Cup and the T20 World Cup, as reasons for his confidence in the team. However, he noted that India’s Test cricket, especially in away conditions, still needs improvement.  

“I think India is one of the contenders in the Champions Trophy, especially after their performances in the 50-over World Cup and the T20 World Cup,” Ganguly said. “But Test cricket is something they will need to work on, particularly when playing away from home. Rohit, in white-ball cricket, is phenomenal. You will see a different Rohit Sharma once the Champions Trophy starts,” he added.  

Ganguly also spoke about Virat Kohli’s future in white-ball cricket, expressing surprise at Kohli’s recent performances during India’s tour of Australia.  

Meanwhile, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has backed Pakistan as the favorites for the Champions Trophy, emphasizing the advantage of playing at home.  

“The tag of favorites should be given to the home team, Pakistan, as it’s not easy to beat any team in their home conditions,” Gavaskar said. He also praised India’s performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where they won ten matches in a row before losing in the final.  

India recently announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against England and the Champions Trophy.  

The Champions Trophy 2025 will feature eight teams and 15 matches, running from February 19 to March 9. Matches will be held in Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Dubai.  

Pakistan will play the tournament opener against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi. The much-anticipated clash between India and Pakistan is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.