5 Underdog Teams That Could Win ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Cricket fans, brace yourselves! 🏏 The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is just around the corner, and it's shaping up to be a thrilling tournament filled with surprises. While all eyes are on the usual powerhouses, there's a growing buzz about the potential underdogs that could shake things up.

Are you tired of seeing the same teams dominate international cricket? Get ready for a shake-up! From Afghanistan's formidable spin attack to Pakistan's home advantage, this year's tournament is ripe for upsets. As we dive into the "5 Underdog Teams That Could Win ICC Trophy 2025," prepare to challenge your assumptions and discover the dark horses that might just steal the show. Who knows? You might find yourself rooting for an unexpected champion! 🏆

Afghanistan: A Dark Horse with Potent Spin Attack

A. World-class spin bowlers: Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Allah Ghazanfar, and Mohammad Nabi

Afghanistan's potent spin attack is a key factor in their potential to upset stronger teams in the ICC Trophy 2025. The team boasts a formidable lineup of world-class spin bowlers, including:

Bowler	Specialty	Key Strength
Rashid Khan	Leg-spin	Deceptive googlies
Noor Ahmad	Left-arm wrist-spin	Variation in pace
Allah Ghazanfar	Off-spin	Control and accuracy
Mohammad Nabi	Off-spin	All-round capabilities

These spinners have consistently troubled top-tier batting lineups and could prove crucial in leveraging pitch conditions effectively during the tournament.

B. Versatile all-rounders: Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Afghanistan's strength lies not only in their spin department but also in their versatile all-rounders:

• Azmatullah Omarzai: Named ICC Men's ODI Player of the Year for 2024, Omarzai showcased his prowess in the 2023 World Cup with 353 runs and 9 wickets.

• Gulbadin Naib: Experienced campaigner providing stability in both batting and bowling.

• Rahmanullah Gurbaz: Explosive wicket-keeper batsman capable of changing the game's momentum.

These multi-faceted players add depth to Afghanistan's lineup, allowing for strategic flexibility in various match situations.

C. Potential to leverage pitch conditions effectively

Afghanistan's recent performances, including significant victories against England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka during the 2023 Men's Cricket World Cup, demonstrate their ability to adapt to different playing conditions. Their inaugural semi-final finish in the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup further solidifies their reputation as a team capable of thriving in high-pressure tournaments.

The team's familiarity with subcontinental conditions, similar to those expected in Pakistan during the ICC Trophy 2025, could provide a significant advantage. Their spin-heavy attack is well-suited to exploit potentially dry and turning pitches, making them a formidable opponent for any team in the tournament.

With this potent combination of world-class spinners, versatile all-rounders, and the ability to leverage pitch conditions, Afghanistan emerges as a dark horse with the potential to cause major upsets in the ICC Trophy 2025.

Now that we have covered Afghanistan's strengths, we'll next explore another underdog team in the tournament: Bangladesh, and their potential as giant-killers in Group A.

Bangladesh: Potential Giant-Killers in Group A

Now that we've explored Afghanistan's potential as a dark horse with their potent spin attack, let's turn our attention to another underdog team in Group A of the ICC Trophy 2025.

A. Opportunity to surprise stronger teams

Bangladesh enters the ICC Trophy 2025 with the potential to be giant-killers in Group A. Despite their mixed recent performances, including a Test series draw against the West Indies and a T20I series victory, the team remains confident in their ability to challenge stronger opponents. Captain Nazmul Hossain Shanto has expressed their ambitious goal: "We are going to the Champions Trophy to become champions."

B. Adaptability to subcontinental conditions

Bangladesh's familiarity with subcontinental conditions could prove advantageous in the tournament. Their group stage matches against formidable opponents like India, New Zealand, and Pakistan will test their mettle. However, their experience in similar playing conditions may give them an edge over teams less accustomed to the subcontinent's pitches and climate.

C. Recent improvements in team performance

The Bangladesh squad has shown promising signs of improvement:

1. Key veterans: Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur Rahim bring experience and stability to the team.

2. Rising star: Mehidy Hasan Miraz has excelled in recent series with impressive performances in both batting and bowling.

3. Versatile talent: Miraz's achievements include:

   • A five-wicket haul in Tests before turning 19

   • Significant contributions in ODIs and T20Is during the West Indies tour

Player	Role	Recent Achievement
Mahmudullah	All-rounder	Veteran presence
Mushfiqur Rahim	Wicket-keeper batsman	Experienced middle-order anchor
Mehidy Hasan Miraz	All-rounder	Five-wicket haul in Tests, strong performances in limited-overs formats

While Bangladesh faces challenges with consistency and squad balance, their determination and strategic approach could lead to surprising results in the tournament. Their performance in the group stage, particularly against stronger teams, will be crucial in determining their progression in the ICC Trophy 2025.

As we look ahead to the next section, we'll explore how New Zealand, known for their consistent performances, could also emerge as potential upset-makers in the tournament.

New Zealand: Consistent Performers with Upset Potential

Now that we've explored Bangladesh's potential as giant-killers in Group A, let's turn our attention to another underdog team with a consistent track record of performing well in ICC tournaments.

A. Track record of punching above their weight in ICC tournaments

New Zealand has consistently demonstrated their ability to exceed expectations in major cricket events. Despite not being considered favorites, they have regularly reached the latter stages of ICC tournaments. Their recent victory in the Tri-Nation Series in Pakistan further solidifies their reputation as a team capable of delivering strong performances when it matters most.

B. Well-balanced squad with experienced players

The New Zealand squad boasts a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent, creating a well-balanced team:

• Experienced leadership: Kane Williamson's return to form in the tri-nation series provides a significant boost to the team's batting lineup and overall morale.

• Captain's impact: Mitchell Santner's leadership has been praised for its positive influence on team dynamics.

• Emerging talent: Young bowlers like Will O'Rourke and Nathan Smith show promise in filling the void left by retired pacers Tim Southee and Trent Boult.

C. Ability to adapt to various playing conditions

New Zealand's adaptability is a key factor in their potential success at the ICC Trophy 2025:

1. Familiarity with local conditions: Recent experience playing in Pakistan gives them an edge in understanding and adapting to the tournament's conditions.

2. Innovative spin strategy: To compensate for the loss of experienced pace bowlers, New Zealand has developed a unique approach:

Spin Strategy	Description
Spin quartet	Led by Mitchell Santner and including Rachin Ravindra
Part-time spinners	Innovative use to supplement the main spin attack
Asian conditions	Spin-friendly pitches may favor this approach

3. Tactical acumen: Santner's leadership combined with the diverse spinning options provides New Zealand with strategic flexibility.

With this well-rounded approach, New Zealand stands as a formidable underdog in the ICC Trophy 2025. As we look ahead to the next section, we'll examine how South Africa aims to shed their "chokers" label and make a significant impact in the tournament.

South Africa: Seeking to Shed "Chokers" Label

Now that we've explored New Zealand's consistent performances and upset potential, let's turn our attention to another team with a rich cricketing history and a point to prove in the ICC Trophy 2025.

A. History of strong performances in group stages

South Africa has long been known for their impressive showings in the group stages of major tournaments. Their recent performance in the T20 World Cup 2024, where they reached the final, demonstrates their ability to compete at the highest level. This success suggests that the Proteas have the potential to make a significant impact in the Champions Trophy 2025.

B. Talented squad with potential match-winners

The South African squad boasts a roster of exceptional players who can turn the tide of any match. Some of the key players to watch include:

• Heinrich Klaasen

• Kagiso Rabada

• Marco Jansen

• Keshav Maharaj

• David Miller

• Ryan Rickelton

Player	Role	Key Strength
Heinrich Klaasen	Batsman	Explosive middle-order batting
Kagiso Rabada	Bowler	Fast, aggressive pace bowling
Marco Jansen	All-rounder	Versatile left-arm pace and lower-order batting
Keshav Maharaj	Bowler	Skillful left-arm spin
David Miller	Batsman	Power-hitting and finishing ability
Ryan Rickelton	Batsman	Consistent top-order performer

Ryan Rickelton, in particular, is emerging as a player to watch. With a strong domestic 50-over record and recent success in Test cricket, including a 259-run performance against Pakistan, Rickelton is poised to make an impact in the ODI format.

C. Motivation to overcome past disappointments in crucial matches

South Africa's history in major tournaments has been marred by underperformance in crucial matches, earning them the unfortunate label of "chokers." However, this reputation serves as a powerful motivator for the current squad. The team's recent success in reaching the T20 World Cup 2024 final indicates a shift in their ability to perform under pressure.

Former South African all-rounder JP Duminy emphasizes that championship success relies on the consistency of multiple players rather than individual brilliance. This mindset and the team's talented roster could be the key to South Africa shedding their "chokers" label and making a strong run in the ICC Trophy 2025.

As we look ahead to the next section on Pakistan's home advantage as defending champions, it's clear that South Africa will need to bring their A-game to overcome not only their own past but also formidable opponents in the tournament.

Pakistan: Defending Champions with Home Advantage

Now that we've explored South Africa's quest to shed their "chokers" label, let's turn our attention to the defending champions and hosts of the ICC Trophy 2025.

A. Familiarity with local conditions and pitches

Pakistan's home advantage in the ICC Trophy 2025 cannot be overstated. The team's intimate knowledge of local conditions and pitches will be a significant factor in their title defense. Playing at venues like the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and the National Stadium in Karachi, the Pakistani squad will have a distinct edge over their competitors.

• Bowling Strengths:

  • Shaheen Afridi

  • Naseem Shah

  • Haris Rauf

These fast bowlers have impressive ODI records and are expected to excel in the familiar Asian conditions. The spin department, led by Abrar Ahmed, adds another dimension to Pakistan's bowling attack, perfectly suited for home pitches.

B. Pressure and motivation of playing on home soil

While the home crowd's support can be a tremendous boost, it also brings added pressure. Former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed acknowledges this double-edged sword:

Advantages	Challenges
Crowd support	Heightened expectations
Familiar surroundings	Pressure to perform
Cultural comfort	Intense media scrutiny

The team, led by Mohammad Rizwan, will need to maintain composure, especially during high-stakes matches like the one against India scheduled for February 23.

C. Recent success in ICC tournaments bolstering confidence

Pakistan's recent performances in ICC events have been a mixed bag:

1. 2017 Champions Trophy: Victorious

2. 2022 T20 World Cup: Runners-up

3. Limited success in other tournaments since 2017

However, the presence of key players from the 2017 championship-winning squad, such as Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, brings valuable experience and confidence to the team. Babar's evolution into a more dominant player since 2017 is particularly noteworthy, with his remarkable ODI average standing out.

The team's recent victories over strong opponents have further boosted their morale. With a balanced mix of youth and experience, Pakistan enters the tournament as serious contenders, looking to capitalize on their home advantage and defend their title.

Expert Opinions :

• Afghanistan:
• "Former Pakistani cricketer, Ramiz Raja, has noted Afghanistan's 'fearless approach' and believes their spin attack can dismantle any batting lineup."
• "Analyst Simon Doull stated, 'Rashid Khan is a match-winner, and if Afghanistan's batting supports their bowling, they're a serious threat.

• Bangladesh:
• "Habibul Bashar, former Bangladesh captain, believes that 'Mehidy Hasan Miraz's all-round abilities are crucial, and if he performs, Bangladesh can upset any team.

• New Zealand:
• "Ian Smith, former New Zealand wicket-keeper, has praised 'Mitchell Santner's tactical acumen' and sees him as a key leader for the team." 

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Underdog Strengths



Afghanistan

• Key Strength: World-class Spin Attack
• Players: Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mohammad Nabi
• Advantage: Familiarity with Subcontinental Conditions



Bangladesh

• Key Strength: Adaptability to Subcontinental Conditions
• Players: Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mahmudullah
• Advantage: Potential to Surprise Stronger Teams



New Zealand

• Key Strength: Consistent Performance in ICC Tournaments
• Players: Kane Williamson, Mitchell Santner
• Advantage: Well-Balanced Squad



South Africa

• Key Strength: Talented Squad with Match-Winners
• Players: Kagiso Rabada, Heinrich Klaasen
• Advantage: Motivation to Overcome Past Disappointments



Pakistan

• Key Strength: Home Advantage
• Players: Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi
• Advantage: Familiarity with Local Conditions and Pitches
• South Africa:
• "Shaun Pollock, former South African captain, has emphasized that 'South Africa's ability to perform under pressure will be the key to shedding the chokers label.'" 

• Pakistan:
  • "Shoaib Akhtar, former Pakistani fast bowler, has stated, 'Pakistan's fast bowling attack, led by Shaheen Afridi, is capable of winning the tournament.'" 
  • "Sarfaraz Ahmed, former captain, has pointed out that, 'The home crowd support is a huge advantage, but it also brings added pressure.'" 

CONCLUSION

As we look ahead to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, it's clear that the tournament is ripe for potential upsets. Afghanistan's formidable spin attack, Bangladesh's ability to surprise stronger teams, New Zealand's consistent performances, South Africa's determination to overcome past setbacks, and Pakistan's home advantage all present intriguing possibilities for shaking up the competition.

While traditional powerhouses like India, England, and Australia will undoubtedly be strong contenders, the unpredictable nature of cricket and the unique conditions of the tournament in Pakistan and Dubai could level the playing field. As fans, we should keep our eyes on these underdogs, as their performances may well define the excitement and drama of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The stage is set for a thrilling tournament that could redefine the landscape of international cricket.

Which underdog team do you think has the best chance of winning the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?

Afghanistan

Bangladesh

New Zealand

South Africa

Pakistan