The ICC Champions Trophy is ready for a big comeback in 2025 after an eight-year hiatus, and the tournament should be held in Pakistan and United Arab Emirates starting February 19. One Day International (ODI) tournament after the tournament is over ODI World Cup 2023, England have unveiled their squad for the Champions Trophymarking a significant moment in their cricketing calendar. As the first team to announce its lineup, England they seek to build on their recent experiences as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
England’s challenge for the 2025 Champions Trophy
In the upcoming Champions Trophy, England are in Group B, along with great teams such as Australia, South Africaand Afghanistan. The format of the tournament consists of two groups of four teams each, and the best two from each group advance to the semi-finals. This structure promises intense competition as teams fight for a place in the knockout stages. England’s recent form has been mixed; While they have shown resilience during the ODI World Cup, they will need to improve their strategies and player selection to succeed at this prestigious event.
READ ALSO: 3 Australian players to miss 2025 Champions Trophy squad after playing in 2023 ODI World Cup
3 players dropped from England squad for 2025 Champions Trophy after 2023 World Cup.
Despite a good result at the World Cup, several players did not make the squad for the Champions Trophy. Here are three notable omissions:
- Ben Stokes
Ben Stokesa key figure in England’s recent cricketing history and a key player during their ODI World Cup campaign, will not be part of the Champions Trophy squad. Stokes has struggled with fitness issues that have hampered his performance and availability for selection. His absence is a significant blow given his experience and ability to win. The selectors may have opted for younger players who can bring fresh energy and consistency to the squad, reflecting a strategic shift towards building a more sustainable squad structure for future tournaments.
- David Willey
David Willeyknown for his left-arm pace and ability to swing the ball, was another surprise exclusion from the Champions Trophy squad. Willey played a role in England’s run to the World Cup but struggled to make a lasting impact during key games. With England opting for bowlers like Mark Wood and Jofra Archeroffering more pace and wicket-taking potential, Willey’s absence highlights a tactical decision aimed at bolstering England’s attack. His experience could have been invaluable, but the selectors seem focused on prioritizing form and fitness over past contributions.
- Chris wakes up
Chris wakes up he was also left out of the squad for the Champions Trophy after a standout performance at the World Cup. Waakes has been a reliable performer for England in all formats; however, his recent performances may not have lived up to the selectors’ expectations. With emerging talents like Gus Atkinson reinforcing, Waakes’ exclusion reflects a wider trend of selecting players based on current form rather than reputation alone. This decision could mark a new era for English cricket as they look to rejuvenate their line-up with new talent.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 presents an exciting opportunity for England to once again showcase their cricketing prowess on the international stage. While several key players from their World Cup squad will be missing, the squad selected boasts a blend of experience and youthful verve that could prove crucial in navigating tough group games against Australia, South Africa and Afghanistan. As they prepare for this prestigious tournament, all eyes will be on how well they adapt to these changes and whether they can once again win glory on this big stage.
READ ALSO: 5 players who featured in the 2023 ODI World Cup for South Africa but failed to make the 2025 Champions Trophy squad – Quinton de Kock to Gerald Coetzee
