Experts predict Pakistan’s depth and fast-bowling prowess to pose a formidable challenge, with Rizwan-led squad expected to reach knockouts.
February 10, 2025: Former Indian coach Ravi Shastri and Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting have expressed confidence in Mohammad Rizwan-led Pakistan’s chances in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Set to take place across Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, Pakistan will enter the tournament as defending champions, having defeated arch-rivals India in the 2017 final. Pakistan begins their campaign against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi, followed by the highly-anticipated clash with India on February 23 in Dubai.
Shastri highlighted Pakistan’s recent strong performances in white-ball cricket, particularly in South Africa. “Pakistan are the kind of side that, with the exposure they’ve had over the last six to eight months, have shown great depth and strong performances. Despite missing Ayub at the top, they have enough talent to be a serious contender, especially in home conditions. They should qualify for the semi-finals, and from there, it’s anyone’s game,” he said during The ICC Review.
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Ponting, on the other hand, emphasized the lethal fast-bowling attack comprising Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Hasnain. “Pakistan’s pace brigade is phenomenal. Shaheen and Naseem, in particular, have been outstanding in recent series, and their ability to generate pace and movement makes them a nightmare for any batting line-up,” Ponting said.
Both experts also agreed on the significance of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan’s form for Pakistan’s success. “Babar has had some ups and downs, but when he and Rizwan are at their best, Pakistan become incredibly dangerous,” Ponting added.
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Discussing the home advantage, Ponting noted, “The pressure of playing at home can work both ways. It can be a massive motivator with the crowd behind you, pushing the team to go the extra mile in crucial moments.”
With the tournament fast approaching, all eyes are on Pakistan as they look to leverage their home advantage and continue their legacy as a dominant force in ODI cricket.