Last Updated on February 28, 2025 by Sandeep
Former India Coach Believes Team’s Form, Depth, and Unity Make Them Favorites for the Title
Dubai, February 28: Former India cricketer and coach Lalchand Rajput has confidently predicted that India will lift the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, marking their first title win in the tournament since 2013. Rajput believes India’s dominant performances, balanced squad, and strong team camaraderie make them the frontrunners.
“I have got no doubt that we will win this time because of the way they are playing. The team camaraderie is very good, all the boxes have been ticked, and the players are in great form,” Rajput told ANI.
India’s Batting Firepower: Gill, Rohit, and Virat in Top Form
India’s batting lineup has been in sublime form, with multiple stars delivering match-winning performances:
Shubman Gill announced himself with a blistering unbeaten 101 (129) against Bangladesh. Rohit Sharma, the captain, slammed a century against England before the tournament. Shreyas Iyer has been a pillar of consistency in the middle order. Virat Kohli, after a slow start, silenced critics with a record-extending 51st ODI century against Pakistan.
“Virat’s 100 was crucial—everyone was talking about his form, but he delivered when it mattered most. Big-match players like him thrive under pressure, and the India-Pakistan clash was the perfect stage,” Rajput added.
Bowling Unit Firing on All Cylinders
India’s bowlers have been clinical and consistent, dismantling opposition lineups with ease:
Mohammed Shami destroyed Bangladesh with a five-wicket haul. Youngster Harshit Rana has emerged as a breakthrough pacer in the middle overs. Kuldeep Yadav, initially under scrutiny, roared back with a three-wicket haul against Pakistan. All-rounders Jadeja and Axar Patel have been instrumental in controlling the middle overs.
“Bowling-wise, we have a strong attack—Shami, Rana, and our spinners are performing well. Kuldeep’s form was a concern, but he showed his class in the last game. The team is playing as a unit, and that winning momentum will take us to the final,” Rajput stated.
India’s Next Challenge: New Zealand
With India and New Zealand already securing semi-final spots, their final Group A match on Sunday will determine the top standings. While confident in India’s strength, Rajput singled out the Kiwis as a major threat.
“The only team that can challenge India is New Zealand. They have always done well against us in ICC tournaments and have beaten us before in the Champions Trophy. But this is ODI cricket, and I am sure India will stay positive.”
Road to the Final: Can India End the 12-Year Wait?
With two back-to-back wins and an in-form squad, India is looking to end its Champions Trophy drought and reclaim the title. If their current form is any indication, Rohit Sharma’s men are well on their way to bringing home the silverware after 12 years.
Tags:
India vs New Zealand, ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Virat Kohli Century, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, India Cricket News, Lalchand Rajput Prediction
