Pakistan: A Force to Reckon with at ICC Champions Trophy 2025
As the cricketing world gears up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, former cricketers Ravi Shastri and Ricky Ponting have voiced their strong belief that Pakistan will emerge as formidable contenders. The duo points to several key factors that bolster Pakistan’s chances, including home advantage, a potent pace attack, and star players such as Shaheen Afridi and Babar Azam.
Home Advantage and Subcontinental Conditions
With Pakistan set to co-host this prestigious tournament for the first time since the 1996 Cricket World Cup, the significance of the event cannot be overstated. Shastri highlights the unique challenges of playing in subcontinental conditions, where expectations run high. “There’s always pressure when you play at home… but I think Pakistan have the squad to thrive under pressure,” he stated.
Potent Pace Attack
Ponting echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Pakistan’s formidable fast bowling lineup led by Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah. “They have the pace and skill to trouble any batting line-up,” he remarked, underlining the impact of a strong bowling attack in the tournament.
Key Players to Watch
While the absence of young opener Saim Ayub due to injury is a setback, Shastri remains optimistic about Pakistan’s squad depth. Both Shastri and Ponting agree that if Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan can bring their A-game, Pakistan could become incredibly dangerous.
The Path to Success
Shastri predicts that Pakistan should qualify for the semi-finals, where they could prove to be a significant threat. “If they qualify, they’ll be doubly more dangerous,” he added. This sentiment reinforces the notion that Pakistan has the potential to beat any team on any given day.
As we look forward to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, it’s clear that Pakistan’s mix of talent, experience, and home advantage makes them a team to watch. For the latest offers and promotions related to cricket and more, visit Looffers.com.
