R. Ashwin Labels India and New Zealand as Favorites for Champions Trophy, Warns Against Underestimating Australia
New Delhi, February 9 – Indian spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin has identified India and New Zealand as the strongest contenders for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, while also cautioning against writing off Australia, despite their key players being sidelined due to injuries. The tournament is set to commence on February 19 in Pakistan, but India will play all its matches in Dubai under the hybrid model.
Ashwin, speaking on his YouTube channel, highlighted that India will benefit from playing in conditions similar to home. He stated that teams facing India will feel like they are playing in subcontinental conditions, which could pose a significant challenge for the opposition.
The off-spinner also questioned India's preparation for the prestigious tournament, emphasizing that a tri-series involving multiple teams would have been a better build-up compared to a bilateral series against England. He pointed out that Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa have been playing in similar conditions, which could work in their favor during the Champions Trophy. He also recalled India's struggles in the T20 World Cup held in Dubai, stressing that the toss factor could play a crucial role in determining match outcomes.
Regarding New Zealand, Ashwin acknowledged the absence of key pacers Trent Boult and Tim Southee but insisted that the Kiwis remain a formidable side. He posed questions about their bowling attack, wondering who would accompany Matt Henry in the pace department. He also noted the emergence of Will O’Rourke and Ben Sears, who could step up as future stars. With Michael Bracewell and Glenn Phillips in the spin attack, Ashwin believes that captain Mitchell Santner’s leadership and resource utilization will be key to New Zealand’s performance.
While praising New Zealand, Ashwin also stressed that Australia remains a dominant force in ICC events, even though injuries have plagued their squad. With Steve Smith taking over the captaincy, Ashwin questioned whether Smith, Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, and Marnus Labuschagne could lead the team to the semi-finals. He reaffirmed that Australia always finds a way to peak in major tournaments, making them a side that should never be underestimated.
However, Australia’s bowling lineup faces major concerns as regular captain Pat Cummins and key pacer Josh Hazlewood have been ruled out due to injuries. Additionally, Mitchell Marsh withdrew from the tournament on January 31 due to a back injury, while Marcus Stoinis has announced his retirement from ODI cricket. Given these setbacks, Ashwin emphasized that Australia's success could hinge on Smith’s leadership and batting form.
