Ricky Ponting and Ravi Shastri have made headlines with their predictions for the finalists of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to commence on February 19 in Pakistan.
In a recent episode of The ICC Review, both former players expressed their confidence that India and Australia will meet in the tournament’s final, citing their impressive track records and star-studded lineups.
Predictions from Ponting and Shastri
During the discussion, Ponting emphasized the quality of players in both teams, stating, “It’s hard to go past India and Australia again. Just think about the quality of players in both countries right now, and you look back in recent history when these big finals and big ICC events have come around, and inevitably Australia and India are there somewhere.”
His sentiments were echoed by Shastri, who highlighted that both teams are in prime form and suggested that England and South Africa could also be strong contenders for the semi-finals.
Historical Context
India and Australia have a storied rivalry, having faced each other in numerous high-stakes matches over the years. The two teams last met in the ICC World Cup final in 2023, where Australia triumphed to claim their sixth title.
Both nations have also enjoyed success in the Champions Trophy, with Australia winning it twice (2006 and 2009) and India lifting the trophy once (2013), famously sharing it with Sri Lanka in 2002 due to rain.
Tournament Structure
The Champions Trophy will feature eight teams competing for supremacy, with matches set to take place across various venues in Pakistan.
The tournament will kick off with Pakistan facing New Zealand on February 19, while the final is scheduled for March 9.
As anticipation builds for this prestigious event, cricket fans are eager to see if Ponting and Shastri’s predictions hold true.
Other Contenders
While Ponting and Shastri firmly believe in India and Australia’s capabilities, they also acknowledged that teams like England and South Africa possess the talent to challenge for a spot in the semi-finals.
Shastri specifically mentioned that it would take a lot for any other team to surpass these cricketing giants.
