
Ravichandran Ashwin Selects His First Four Teams for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The countdown to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has begun, and Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has taken the honor of selecting the first four teams for the prestigious tournament. As a member of the ICC’s "Emerging Player Draft" panel, Ashwin has made his picks for the top four teams he believes have the potential to lift the coveted trophy.
Ashwin’s selections are based on his own expertise and analysis of the current international cricket landscape. As a veteran of 80 Test matches and a decorated leggie, Ashwin knows a thing or two about what it takes to succeed at the highest level. His selections provide an intriguing insight into the teams that are likely to make serious contenders for the Champions Trophy.
Team 1: England
Ashwin’s first pick, England, has been in scintillating form recently, with a maiden Test series victory in Australia and a dominant display in the World Cup 50-over tournament. He believes England’s all-around talent, backed by a strong batting line-up, makes them a force to be reckoned with. "England’s batsmen, especially Joe Root, Joe Denly, and Jos Buttler, have shown they can adapt to any condition," Ashwin said. "Their bowlers, like Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, and Sam Curran, have the ability to take wickets in all conditions."
Team 2: India
Ashwin’s second pick, India, has been the most consistent team in Test cricket, with an impressive record at home and away. He praised India’s ability to adapt to various conditions and their well-balanced attack. "India’s spinners, with Rashid Khan and Kuldeep Yadav, are among the best in the world, and their fast bowlers, like Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, can operate effectively in all conditions."
Team 3: New Zealand
Ashwin’s third team, New Zealand, has been underappreciated but have consistently punched above their weight in international cricket. He commended their strong all-around performance, citing their powerful batting line-up featuring Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor, and Henry Nicholls, as well as their resilient bowling attack. "New Zealand’s seam attack, led by Tim Southee and Trent Boult, has the ability to nullify any batting line-up, and their spinners, like Mitchell Santner, are capable of picking wickets."
Team 4: South Africa
Ashwin’s fourth and final team, South Africa, has an impressive recent record in Test cricket, including a series win over England at home. He praised their strong batting line-up, led by Faf du Plessis, Quinton de Kock, and Aiden Markram, as well as their attack, which has the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, and Tabraiz Shamsi. "South Africa’s batsmen are capable of dominating any opposition, and their bowlers can pick up wickets on most surfaces."
Ashwin’s selections for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 have set the stage for an exciting tournament, with the top four teams showcasing their diverse strength and depth. As the teams prepare for the big event, fans around the world will eagerly await the thrill of live action, hoping for an unpredictable and thrilling ride.