As the Champions Trophy reaches its thrilling climax, cricket’s elite have once again risen to the occasion. India, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa—the powerhouses of world cricket—have booked their places in the semi-finals. If this lineup feels familiar, it’s because these very teams also dominated the 2023 ODI World Cup, proving their sustained excellence in the 50-over format.
This edition of the Champions Trophy has, in many ways, mirrored the narrative of the last ODI World Cup in India. India remains unbeaten going into the knockouts, South Africa has been a force to reckon with, Pakistan and England have struggled despite Ben Duckett (227) and Joe Root (225) emerging as the tournament’s top scorers, Bangladesh couldn’t pull off an upset, and Afghanistan—making its Champions Trophy debut—has punched above its weight. Just as it did in the ODI World Cup, Afghanistan stunned England and Pakistan and nearly toppled Australia. Australia has showcased its resilience, particularly in successful run chases, while New Zealand has remained competitive—until it has faced India.
Controversy and the Future of ODIs
No ICC tournament is complete without controversy. This time, the spotlight is on India playing all its matches at a single venue—the Dubai International Stadium. Critics argue this gives them an unfair advantage. However, while such concerns were valid before the tournament began, now that the matches are underway, it’s time to focus on the cricket itself.
The bigger debate, however, revolves around the future of ODI cricket. With an already packed calendar featuring T20 leagues and Test series, some have questioned the relevance of another 50-over tournament. But for the purists, ODI cricket isn’t just alive—it’s thriving. Die-hard fans still cherish the format for:
- The thrill of watching eight hours of gripping, strategic cricket.
- The mastery of bowlers adjusting their plans ball by ball.
- The art of pacing an innings showcased in marathon knocks like Ibrahim Zadran’s.
- The emergence of young stars—Zadran, Rachin Ravindra, and Azmatullah Omarzai—who continue to raise the bar.
- The discovery of new talents like South Africa’s Ryan Rickelton, a potential successor to Quinton de Kock.
For many, including myself, ODIs remain a cut above T20 cricket.
Who Will Lift the Champions Trophy?
On Sunday, March 9 (Monday morning in Australia), the cricketing world will witness a new champion. But based on form and firepower, who stands the best chance?
- Australia: Their history of thriving in knockouts makes them dangerous, despite a relatively underwhelming fast-bowling unit and struggling spinners. However, their powerful batting lineup could still tilt the scales in their favor.
- South Africa: Arguably the most balanced side, boasting a world-class pace trio (Ngidi, Rabada, and Jansen) supported by the crafty Maharaj. But the ever-present “chokers” tag will loom large.
- New Zealand: With a reliable batting lineup, quality pace attack, and exemplary fielding, they have ICC knockout experience, having reached the ODI World Cup semi-finals nine times and the Champions Trophy knockouts three times. However, their tendency to falter in big moments could be their undoing.
- India: Playing on Dubai’s slower pitches, they will lean heavily on their spin attack, with Jadeja and Axar almost certain to feature. Their batting firepower—Gill and Iyer in particular—could be key, but the performances of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Mohammed Shami will be crucial.
A Thrilling Finish Awaits
The scene is set for an electrifying finish. Will Australia’s knockout expertise prove decisive? Can South Africa finally bury their ghosts? Will New Zealand break their 25-year ICC ODI trophy drought? Or will India’s tactical mastery on spin-friendly pitches seal another ICC crown? One thing is certain—come March 9, the cricketing world will have its answer.
So, who do YOU think will lift the Champions Trophy?
