February 16, 2025: Tim Southee, the former Blackcaps bowler and captain, will watch the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 from the sidelines after announcing his retirement from international cricket at the end of 2024. This means New Zealand will compete without both Southee and Trent Boult, two key figures in their fast-bowling attack.
Despite the absence of these seasoned pacers, Southee has full faith in his former teammates and the current squad’s ability to perform in Pakistan. Having just seen the team win the Tri-Nation Series in Pakistan, he is optimistic about their prospects in the tournament.
In an interview, Southee shared his thoughts on the team’s composition and their chances in the Champions Trophy. “The way the team has played, different guys have stepped up. It’s a good mix between some experienced guys and some exciting young players with a lot of potential,” he said. “The experience from this Tri-Nation Series is only going to stand them in good stead for the tournament, so taking some momentum into the tournament and being accustomed to those conditions will be a good thing.”
Southee highlighted the form of Kane Williamson, who has been in impressive shape after returning to one-day cricket. “Kane is in good form. It’s nice to see him contributing with two significant scores. He’s class, and his presence in the middle always brings a calmness to the team,” said Southee, reflecting on the leadership that Williamson brings to the group.
Southee also praised Mitchell Santner, the current captain, noting that while the role is relatively new to him, Santner’s calm demeanor and all-around skills make him an ideal leader. “Mitch has done a great job as captain,” said Southee. “He thinks about the game well and leads by example across all three areas – bowling, fielding, and batting. I’m sure he’ll be looking to lead in those areas.”
With the absence of experienced bowlers like Southee and Boult, fast bowler Will O’Rourke and all-rounder Nathan Smith will play pivotal roles in New Zealand’s attack. Southee was particularly impressed with O’Rourke, who took four wickets in the Tri-Nation Series final against Pakistan and has also impressed in Test cricket. “Will O’Rourke has the attributes to have a lot of success in international cricket,” said Southee. “He’s still young but has all the potential. I’m looking forward to seeing him in his first ICC event.”
Southee also spoke highly of Nathan Smith, who has shown a real confidence in his game. “Nathan Smith believes in himself, which is crucial at this level,” he said. “He has the confidence to perform under pressure, and his growth will be exciting to watch.”
As New Zealand prepares for their next big challenge, Southee is confident that the team, led by the experienced heads of Santner and Williamson, will be able to handle the pressure of an ICC event. “Will and Nathan still have plenty to learn, but their exposure to the conditions during the Tri-Nation Series will be valuable for them. Will has the pace and bounce, and we’ve seen him continue to improve in Test cricket. His game is far from finished, but I’m sure he’ll be a massive asset for New Zealand cricket.”
Southee concluded by reflecting on New Zealand’s consistent track record in ICC events. “If you look at the history of New Zealand in ICC tournaments, they are always there or thereabouts. In a tournament like the Champions Trophy, if you get on a roll, anything can happen. I’d love to see the Blackcaps there and hopefully lifting the trophy at the end.”
New Zealand’s prospects in the Champions Trophy 2025 look bright, with a blend of seasoned experience and emerging talent, and Tim Southee will undoubtedly be cheering them on as a fan.