As the **ICC Champions Trophy 2025** reaches its climax, former **England** captains **Nasser Hussain** and **Michael Atherton**, speaking on Sky Sports Cricket, have shared their insights on the tournament’s standout performers. From the best batter and bowler to the most clutch performance and biggest disappointment, the two provided a detailed analysis of the competition’s defining moments. With **India** and **New Zealand** set to face off in the final on March 9 in Dubai, Hussain and Atherton stopped short of naming a player of the tournament before the conclusion but highlighted those who have made the biggest impact so far.
**Best Batter: Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton Reveal Their Choices**
When it came to selecting the best batter of the tournament, Hussain had no hesitation in picking **Rachin Ravindra** from New Zealand, who has been one of the most consistent and stylish players. The left-hander has already scored two centuries, playing pivotal innings for his team, and Hussain praised his elegant stroke play.
“Not just the runs he’s scored, but the way he scores them – he’s so pleasing, so elegant to watch. Just brilliant. With two hundreds under his belt, he’s played beautifully, and I’m hoping he shines in the final,” Hussain said.
Atherton echoed Hussain’s sentiments, emphasizing Ravindra’s ability to anchor the innings, accelerate when needed, and play classical strokes with authority. The 24-year-old has shown remarkable composure under pressure, making him a key player to watch in the final.
**Best Bowler So Far in the Ninth Edition**
While several bowlers have impressed, both Hussain and Atherton agreed that **Matt Henry** has been the standout bowler of the tournament. The New Zealand pacer has consistently delivered early breakthroughs despite the batting-friendly conditions in Pakistan.
“The pitches have been flat, offering little assistance, yet Henry continues to take crucial new-ball wickets,” Hussain noted. Atherton added, “His economy rate is even better than Mohammad Shami’s, who’s also had a great tournament, but I’ve gone with Henry for his ability to make an immediate impact.”
Henry’s swing, pace, and control have been instrumental in giving New Zealand strong starts with the ball, and he will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the final against India.
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**Best Catch of the Champions Trophy 2025**
The contest for the best catch of the tournament sparked plenty of debate, but both experts settled on **Glenn Phillips**’ stunning catch to dismiss **Virat Kohli** against India, which left the crowd in awe.
“The reaction of the crowd, the silence in the stadium, and the sheer athleticism – it was just incredible,” Atherton said. Phillips, known as one of the best fielders in world cricket, produced a moment of pure brilliance, diving at full stretch to complete the catch.
Hussain added, “The first catch was brilliant, but this one was even better because of how cleanly he took it. Just a fantastic piece of fielding.”
Phillips’ fielding has been a highlight for New Zealand throughout the tournament, cementing his reputation as one of the world’s top fielders.
**Most Clutch Performance in the Tournament**
p>Asked about the most clutch performance, Hussain singled out **Virat Kohli’s** match-winning innings in the semi-final, which once again proved why he is regarded as one of the best chasers in the game.
“The king of the run chase – can you think of a better one?” Hussain asked rhetorically.
Atherton, however, chose **Josh Inglis’** century, arguing that it was equally impactful in the context of the game.
“It was a brilliant hundred in a high-pressure run chase. With the stakes so high, he delivered for Australia,” Atherton explained.
**Most Memorable Moment**
While individual performances stood out, **Ibrahim Zadran’s** 177-run knock against England was unanimously hailed as one of the tournament’s finest moments. Hussain and Atherton both agreed that the **Afghanistan** opener’s innings was exceptional.
“That innings will stay with me for a long time. At 30 for 3, against an England attack featuring Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, most teams would have collapsed. But Zadran played as if he had all the time in the world, making batting look effortless. His fitness was outstanding – while others were cramping, he looked as fresh as ever. Truly remarkable,” Hussain reflected.
Zadran’s innings not only propelled Afghanistan to a competitive total but also signaled their emergence as a force in international cricket.
**Most Disappointing Team Ahead of the Final**
The most disappointing team of the tournament was an easy call for both experts, who unanimously named England for their abysmal campaign.
“England, England, England – end of story,” Hussain said bluntly.
Atherton added, “With the talent they have, they shouldn’t have performed this poorly. From batting to bowling, nothing worked. They’ll need a serious rethink after this disaster.”
**Best Team: India or New Zealand**
Finally, when it came to picking the best team, Hussain and Atherton agreed that India and New Zealand were the most deserving finalists.
“Whoever wins the final will be the best team, but based on performances so far, these two have been a class apart,” Hussain said.
“India have been dominant, playing with confidence and skill, while New Zealand have been the ultimate street fighters. No one can argue that these aren’t the two best teams in the tournament,” Atherton concluded.
