New Zealand thoroughly Rachin Ravindra gave his predictions for the long-awaited ones ICC Champions Trophy 2025will take place in Pakistan and Dubai from February 19 to March 9.
The Champions Cup returns after eight years
The Champions Cup will be brought back after an eight-year hiatus. The tournament will feature 15 matches played in Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi and Dubai. This format includes eight teams divided into two groups, with each match having high stakes similar to the playoffs. It belongs to group A Pakistan, IndiaNew Zealand and BangladeshGroup B features Afghanistan, South Africa, England and Australia. With the knockout style format, every game counts and adds to the excitement of the tournament.
Rachin Ravindra announces the names of the two finalists
In an exclusive interview with ICC, Rachin backed New Zealand and Australia to meet in the final. Expressing confidence in the competitive strength of both teams, Racine highlighted Australia’s dominance across formats and New Zealand’s ability to excel on the global stage. While refraining from naming the hosts Pakistan or world number one India like the finalists, he said he was hoping for a thrilling Trans-Tasman Derby. Rachin, a key performer in the 2023 ODI World Cup with over 500 runs, is optimistic about New Zealand’s chances of lifting the prestigious title.
“It’s always very difficult to predict (the finalists) because you always want to say New Zealand because you’re involved. So hopefully we’re there. I mean, we’re going to take it game by game and it’s pretty hard for other teams to count out people like Australia. I think they are a really good team and they have shown how strong they are in all formats. Current ODI World Cup holders too. Hopefully it will be a Trans-Tasman derby.” Rachin said.
Also READ: Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman predicts the four semi-finalists of the 2025 Champions Trophy
New Zealand schedule and challenges
New Zealand will begin their campaign against Pakistan in Karachi on February 19 and Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 24. They conclude the group stage against India on March 2 in Dubai. Rachin highlighted the unique nature of the Champions Trophy, where every game feels like a knockout, and expressed his excitement at competing in such a high-stakes tournament. Known for their adaptability and resilience, the Blackcaps are aiming for a place in the finals and will potentially face Australia in what is a thrilling result.
