ICC Champions Trophy 2025: bold prediction for 4 Semifinalists locked
Champions Trophy 2025 bold prediction for 4 Semifinalists, Afghanistan cricket captain Hashmatullah Shahidi has made waves with his bold semifinal predictions for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to take place in Pakistan. In a surprising move, Shahidi picked Afghanistan, India, England, and Australia as his top four contenders, notably leaving out the host nation, Pakistan. His predictions, shared during a popular Indian podcast, have ignited debates, particularly due to Afghanistan’s rise in world cricket and Pakistan’s reputation on home soil.
Afghanistan’s Recent Rise Justifies Confidence
Afghanistan’s cricketing journey over the past few years has been nothing short of impressive. They have secured historic wins against top-tier teams like Australia, New Zealand, and England in white-ball formats, showcasing their growth on the international stage. Earlier in 2024, Afghanistan made it to the semifinals of the T20 World Cup, only to be edged out by South Africa.
Shahidi believes that his team is well-prepared to make another deep run in a global tournament, backing them to reach the semifinals of the ICC Champions Trophy in early 2025.
Why No Pakistan in Shahidi’s Predictions?
When asked about the exclusion of Pakistan from his semifinalist picks, Shahidi offered a measured response, acknowledging Pakistan’s strength in home conditions. However, he hinted that, based on recent performances and overall form, he favored England over the host nation. Shahidi highlighted the difference between Test and ODI formats when questioned about Pakistan’s recent Test series loss to Bangladesh, suggesting that Pakistan could still pose a threat in the Champions Trophy.
Shahidi’s reasoning stems from Pakistan’s inconsistency in limited-overs formats in recent years, despite their undeniable home advantage in the 2025 event.
Australia, India, and England Among the Favorites
Shahidi’s other semifinal picks reflect conventional wisdom. Australia, having won the 2023 ODI World Cup, remains a dominant force in international cricket and will undoubtedly enter the Champions Trophy with high expectations. India, the winners of the 2013 edition of the Champions Trophy, are another favorite, while England, known for their aggressive brand of white-ball cricket, complete Shahidi’s list.
Hashmatullah Shahidi’s All-Time ODI World XI
In the same podcast appearance, Shahidi shared his all-time ODI World XI, a tribute to some of cricket’s most legendary figures. His team reflects a mix of iconic players from various eras and nations, showcasing his deep appreciation for the game.
Here’s Shahidi’s all-time ODI XI:
- Saeed Anwar (Pakistan) – Known for his explosive starts and iconic centuries, Anwar opens Shahidi’s team alongside India’s Rohit Sharma.
- Rohit Sharma (India) – One of the finest modern-day openers, Rohit’s consistency and record-breaking innings have earned him a spot on this list.
- Virat Kohli (India) – Kohli’s ability to anchor innings and dominate opposition attacks places him firmly in this elite XI.
- Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) – A master of technique and temperament, Sangakkara’s inclusion adds class to the middle order.
- Inzamam-ul-Haq (Pakistan) – Known for his big-game performances, Inzamam was a reliable middle-order powerhouse.
- Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) – One of Sri Lanka’s greatest cricketing minds, Jayawardene’s ability to control the game earns him a place.
- Rashid Latif (Pakistan, WK) – A dependable wicketkeeper with excellent glovework, Latif is Shahidi’s pick behind the stumps.
- Andrew Flintoff (England) – Flintoff’s ability to contribute both with bat and ball makes him a valuable all-rounder in this XI.
- Rashid Khan (Afghanistan) – A modern-day spin sensation, Rashid Khan’s impact in limited-overs cricket is undeniable.
- Waqar Younis (Pakistan) – Known for his toe-crushing yorkers and reverse swing, Waqar is one of the finest fast bowlers in cricket history.
- Jasprit Bumrah (India) – Bumrah’s unmatched death bowling and versatility across all phases of the game make him a vital part of this lineup.
