New Zealand versatile Rachin Ravindra has given his predictions for the long-awaited ICC Champions Trophy 2025which will be held in Pakistan and Dubai from February 19 to March 9.
The Champions Trophy returns after eight years
The Champions Trophy will mark the return after an eight-year hiatus. The tournament will feature 15 matches played in Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi and Dubai. The format features eight teams divided into two groups, with each game carrying high stakes like knockout games. Group A includes Pakistan, IndiaNew Zealand and Bangladeshwhile group B has Afghanistan, South Africa, England and Australia. With the knockout style format, every match carries immense significance, which further adds to the excitement of the tournament.
Rachin Ravindra names 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, Rachin highlighted Australia’s dominance across all formats and New Zealand’s ability to excel on the global stage. Refraining from naming the host Pakistan or world number one India as finalists, he said he was hoping for an exciting Trans-Tasman Derby. Rachin, a key player in the 2023 ODI World Cup with more than 500 runs, is optimistic about New Zealand’s prospects 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. We hope we are there. I mean, we’re going to take it one game at a time, and the other groups, it’s pretty hard to count people like Australia out. I think they are a very good team and have shown how strong they are in all formats. The current ODI World Cup holders as well. Hopefully it will be a trans-Tasman derby,” Rachin said.
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New Zealand schedule and challenges
New Zealand will begin their campaign with an opening game against Pakistan on February 19 in Karachi, followed by a clash with Bangladesh on February 24 in Rawalpindi. They conclude their group stage against India on March 2 in Dubai. Rachin emphasized the unique nature of the Champions Trophy, where every match looks like a knockout, and expressed his excitement at competing in such a high-stakes tournament. The Blackcaps, known for their adaptability and resilience, are looking to secure a place in the finals and potentially face Australia in what promises to be a thrilling finish.
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