The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is just around the corner, set to begin on February 19, with India gearing up to start their campaign on February 20 against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Stadium. Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, India will be looking to reclaim the title they won in 2013, while they aim to bounce back after a heartbreaking defeat in the 2017 final against arch-rivals Pakistan. Ahead of the tournament, one of India’s top performers at ICC events, Shikhar Dhawan, offered his insights on India’s chances and what fans can expect from this high-stakes competition.
Reflecting on his Champions Trophy memories, Dhawan told the ICC, “It is a great feeling to have the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy back. I remember when I played in it for the first time in 2013, and I loved it. The buzz around this tournament is already building, and it’s exciting to see the anticipation from the fans.” The excitement and speculation leading up to the tournament are palpable, and Dhawan couldn’t help but express his confidence in India’s squad. “I can’t look past India; they have a solid team and played very well against England in their recent ODI series.”
However, Shikhar Dhawan pointed out a major concern for India: the absence of Jasprit Bumrah due to a back injury.
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“There is no doubt he will be a big loss. I think India will feel his absence strongly. For me, he is the best bowler in the world, and his accuracy is hard to replicate. He brings a calm and composed presence that is crucial in high-pressure tournaments like the Champions Trophy.” Despite this setback, Dhawan remains optimistic about the potential of Harshit Rana, who has been included in the squad. “Harshit is an exciting prospect; he’s a go-getter and not afraid of challenges. His form in the England series was impressive, and I think he could be an x-factor for India in this tournament.”
India’s batting line-up, featuring the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and the ever-consistent Shubman Gill, is another reason for Dhawan’s optimism. “Shubman has been so consistent, and I believe he’ll play a big role in this tournament. Rohit has found form, and with Virat in the mix, India’s batting looks formidable. They have a balanced squad with a mix of experience and youth, and I’m confident they will perform well.”
Dhawan also took the opportunity to praise other teams in the competition, particularly South Africa and Pakistan.
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“South Africa has been playing consistent cricket, and they have the depth and experience to do well. Players like Kagiso Rabada can make a huge difference. Pakistan, playing in home conditions, will be tough to beat, and New Zealand is always a strong contender.” He also mentioned Australia, despite their struggles in the series against Sri Lanka. “Australia has some fantastic batters, with Travis Head in form and Steve Smith reminding everyone of his brilliance. It’s always inspiring to see the likes of Smith, Kohli, Joe Root, and Kane Williamson still going strong after all these years.”
The Champions Trophy holds a special place in Dhawan’s heart. He was the leading run-scorer in both the 2013 and 2017 tournaments, and his memories from 2013 are particularly significant. His performances and his iconic moustache even became a talking point among fans. As India prepares for the 2025 Champions Trophy, Dhawan’s insights provide a glimpse into the team’s mindset and expectations. With a solid squad, emerging players, and a captain in Rohit Sharma, India will be looking to build on their past successes and push for another title.
