Cricket’s fiercest rivalries, historic battles, and unexpected twists—The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to deliver high-octane action as the world’s top eight teams compete for glory in Pakistan and Dubai. With marquee matchups lined up, the tournament promises unforgettable clashes, intense rivalries, and moments that will go down in history.
The Champions Trophy begins on Wednesday, bringing together the world’s best in a battle for the prestigious title. AFP Sport looks at three highly anticipated matches in the group phase of the 50-over tournament:
Australia vs. England – A War on the Cricket Field
The Ashes rivals clash in Lahore on Saturday. World Cup holders Australia have dominated recent 50-over encounters, winning their last series 3-2. However, both teams enter the tournament with uncertainty.
Australia are without their “Big Three” pacers—Pat Cummins (ankle), Josh Hazlewood (hip), and Mitchell Starc (personal reasons). Additionally, all-rounders Mitchell Marsh (back) and Marcus Stoinis (retired) are also absent, leaving the squad significantly weakened. Their struggles showed in a heavy 2-0 series defeat in Sri Lanka just before the tournament.
England, now under Test coach Brendon McCullum, have faced their own setbacks, suffering a 3-0 whitewash in India. Since winning the 2019 World Cup and the 2022 T20 World Cup, they have struggled in white-ball cricket.
India vs. Pakistan – The Battle That Shakes the World
Whenever these arch-rivals face off, TV ratings soar as millions tune in to witness the battle between the nuclear-armed neighbors. Their latest showdown takes place on Sunday in Dubai.
Tickets for the clash sold out within minutes, with over 150,000 fans queuing online for seats in the 25,000-capacity stadium. Political tensions led to India refusing to travel to Pakistan, forcing a compromise that shifted part of the tournament to Dubai.
On the field, India are favorites to claim their third title, making this a potential farewell tournament for Rohit Sharma. Meanwhile, defending champions Pakistan remain unpredictable, capable of brilliance on their day.
Afghanistan vs. England – Cricket Meets Controversy
Political tensions shadow England’s February 26 match against Afghanistan in Lahore, with over 160 British politicians calling for a boycott due to Taliban policies restricting women’s rights.
However, England skipper Jos Buttler dismissed the idea, saying, “I don’t think a boycott is the way to go about it.” Unless a last-minute reversal occurs, the match will proceed as planned.
Despite a recent heavy defeat in India, Buttler insists England can be a “dangerous” side in the tournament. Afghanistan, meanwhile, have emerged as a rising force, now ranked eighth in ODIs—just one spot below England. Their T20 World Cup campaign saw them stun Australia and reach the semi-finals before falling to South Africa.