8 Captains in focus: Who will conquer ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, the anticipation builds as eight team captains prepare to lead their sides in what is expected to be one of the most fiercely contested tournaments in cricket. Each captain faces significant pressure and expectations as they aim to guide their team to ODI success in Pakistan over 19 action-packed days. With the top eight ODI teams competing for supremacy, this is an opportunity to explore the journeys of these leaders, highlight iconic moments from their careers, and examine the challenges they will face in the Champions Trophy.
Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan)
Pakistan’s captain leads the defending champions during the Champions Trophy held at home. Since becoming captain, Rizwan has inspired his team to achieve historic ODI series wins in Australia and South Africa, proving he is a strong leader. He is entering the tournament in great form, including a recent century against South Africa in the tri-series before the Champions Trophy. Pakistan, who won the 2017 Champions Trophy under Sarfaraz Ahmed, is eager to defend their title in front of their home fans. Rizwan knows the expectations are high but focuses on the opportunity. He stated, “Hosting the Champions Trophy is a proud moment for us. We have performed well in ODIs recently, and we are excited to play in front of our home crowd.”
Temba Bavuma (South Africa)
Bavuma is leading South Africa in his first Champions Trophy campaign. Under his leadership, the Proteas have achieved significant milestones, including reaching the semi-finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup and securing a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final. He aims to bring South Africa closer to winning their first major ICC trophy since 1998.
Bavuma knows that the Champions Trophy presents a unique challenge. In this shorter format, there is little room for mistakes. He explained, “In the World Cup, you have time to take stock and step up, but in the Champions Trophy, you don’t get that luxury. We have to be at our best from the very start.” He is determined to make an impact.
Hashmatullah Shahidi (Afghanistan)
The 30-year-old left-handed batsman has emerged as a steady and determined leader for Afghanistan, guiding them through a historic 2023 World Cup campaign. Under his captaincy, Afghanistan stunned former champions England and Pakistan while also securing a win over Sri Lanka, proving they are no longer underdogs in world cricket.
Shahidi now leads Afghanistan in their maiden Champions Trophy appearance, determined to continue their upward trajectory. Despite being a newcomer to the tournament, he is confident in his squad’s ability to challenge the best. “We have the talent to beat every side in every format,” Shahidi said. “The Champions Trophy is a big challenge, but we are looking forward to proving ourselves on the big stage.”
Steve Smith (Australia)
Steve Smith, one of the modern greats of the game, returns to captain Australia in the Champions Trophy. He previously led the team in the 2017 edition of the tournament. With Pat Cummins unavailable, the experienced right-hander is tasked with guiding the reigning ODI world champions in their pursuit of a third title in this competition.
As a key player in Australia’s dominant performances in both white-ball and red-ball formats over the past decade, Smith is aware of the challenges ahead, especially with several key players missing. However, he remains confident in the squad’s depth.
“They all have their own unique skills. My role is to bring out the best in them at the right time,” Smith said, emphasizing his leadership approach.
Nazmul Hossain Shanto (Bangladesh)
As he leads Bangladesh in his third ICC event, the 26-year-old left-hander has taken on the responsibility of captaincy during a transitional phase for the team. Despite facing various challenges, Shanto is determined to guide Bangladesh toward achieving its first major ICC title.
Historically, Bangladesh has been competitive in global tournaments, although they have often fallen short at crucial moments. This time, Shanto is confident that they have the squad necessary to succeed. “We all want to win the trophy. In the last few tournaments, we haven’t performed well, but this time we are thinking differently. If we execute our plans, we can win,” he stated, radiating confidence.
Jos Buttler (England)
Jos Buttler, an explosive wicketkeeper-batsman and experienced leader, is well-acquainted with ICC success. He played a crucial role in England’s triumph at the 2019 ODI World Cup and later captained the team to victory in the T20 World Cup in 2022.
Now, Buttler aims to lead England to their first Champions Trophy title. Despite recent struggles in the ODI series, including a disappointing campaign in India, he remains optimistic. Buttler believes that the squad is capable of turning things around when it truly matters.
“The fact that we haven’t played at our best yet gives us something to aim for. We know our potential and believe we can be a dangerous team in the Champions Trophy,” Buttler stated.
Rohit Sharma (India)
Rohit Sharma is a seasoned player in the Champions Trophy, having helped India win this tournament in 2013. Now, he is the captain for the first time, aiming to win another trophy in his career.
Rohit led India to a strong performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where they reached the final but did not win. He then guided the team to a T20 World Cup victory. India comes into this tournament after a 3-0 series win against England, and Rohit is confident in his team.
Rohit says, “There is freedom in the squad to go out there and play the way you are supposed to play.” He highlighted India’s focus on aggressive batting. “We want to build on the momentum we have, even if things don’t always go our way.”
Mitchell Santner (New Zealand)
A seasoned campaigner and one of the most reliable all-rounders in New Zealand cricket, Santner is stepping into his first ICC event as captain. The experienced left-arm spinner has already demonstrated his leadership abilities by guiding New Zealand to an unbeaten run in the recent Tri-Nation series against Pakistan and South Africa.
New Zealand has a strong track record in ICC tournaments, often reaching the latter stages. Santner is optimistic that his team can take that final step this time. “Winning the Tri-Nation series is great, but it means nothing until we play our first game in the Champions Trophy,” he noted, emphasizing the larger challenge that lies ahead.
Leadership and Strategy to Shape the Tournament’s Outcome
With eight captains leading eight world-class teams, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises intense competition and captivating cricket. As the countdown begins, the stage is set for a tournament where leadership, tactics, and big-match temperament will decide who lifts the coveted trophy.
Conclusion
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to be an exciting tournament, with eight captains leading their teams in a highly competitive battle for the title. Each leader brings unique experience, strategy, and determination to guide their side to success. From seasoned players like Rohit Sharma and Steve Smith to rising leaders like Mohammad Rizwan and Hashmatullah Shahidi, the tournament will showcase leadership under pressure.
