New Zealand comprehensive Raheen Ravindra has made his predictions for the long-awaited ones ICC Champions Trophy 2025is set to take place at Pakistan and Dubai from February 19 to March 9.
The Champions Trophy returns after eight years
The Champions Trophy will mark their return after an eight-year hiatus. The tournament will feature 15 matches across Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi and Dubai. The format features eight teams divided into two groups, with each match carrying high stakes similar to knockout games. Group A includes Pakistan, IndiaNew Zealand and Bangladeshwhile Group B has Afghanistan, South Africa, England and Australia. With a knockout format, every game has immense importance, adding to the excitement of the tournament.
Rachin Ravindra names the two finalists
In an exclusive interview with an 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 formats and New Zealand’s ability to excel on the world stage. While we are away from naming hosts Pakistan or number one in the world India as a finalist, he said he was hoping for an exciting Trans-Tasman derby. Rachin, a key performer in the 2023 ODI World Cup with over 500 runs, is upbeat about New Zealand’s chances of lifting the prestigious title.
“It’s always very difficult to predict (finalists) because you always want to say New Zealand because you’re in it. So we hope to be there. I mean, we’ll take it game by game, and the other teams, it’s very hard to measure people like Australia. I think they are a very good team and they have shown how strong they are in all formats. The current ODI World Cup holders as well. So hopefully it will be a Trans-Tasman derby.” Raheen said.
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New Zealand Program and Challenges
New Zealand will begin their campaign with the opening match against Pakistan on February 19 in Karachi, followed by a clash with Bangladesh on February 24 in Rawalpindi. They complete their group stage with 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. The Blackcaps, known for their adaptability and resilience, aim to secure a place in the finals and possibly face Australia in what promises to be a thrilling result.
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2025-01-14 11:37:00
