Wed Feb 19 09:58:19 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan Hosts ICC Champions Trophy 2025: India, Pakistan, and New Zealand Emerge as Top Contenders

**Lahore, Pakistan –** The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 kicks off in Pakistan on Wednesday, with the top eight ODI teams vying for the coveted title, a hefty $2.24 million prize, and national pride. The tournament marks the return of a major ICC event to Pakistan after a 29-year absence.

While all teams are aiming for victory, three nations stand out as favorites: India, Pakistan, and New Zealand.

**India**, the world’s number one ODI team and reigning T20 World Cup champions, are eager to avenge their 2017 final loss to Pakistan. Their recent dominant performances, including a 3-0 sweep of England, and the stellar form of Shubman Gill, Kuldeep Yadav, and Hardik Pandya, make them strong contenders.

**Pakistan**, the 2017 Champions Trophy winners, will be playing on home turf, aiming to capitalize on the passionate support of their fans. Despite recent inconsistencies, the team boasts star players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Fakhar Zaman, who could lead them to another title triumph. Their recent ODI series wins against Australia and South Africa bolster their chances.

**New Zealand**, the 2000 Champions Trophy winners, have consistently reached the knockout stages of major ICC tournaments but haven’t secured a recent victory. Their recent tri-nation series win in Pakistan, coupled with the return to form of Kane Williamson and the steady leadership of Mitchell Santner, suggests they could be dark horses.

Australia, meanwhile, enters the tournament weakened by key player absences, significantly diminishing their title hopes. The Champions Trophy promises exciting matches and fierce competition as the world’s best ODI teams battle for supremacy in Pakistan.

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