Champions Trophy 2025: ICC Revealed Team of the Tournament and Key Performances

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be remembered as a tournament that showcased cricketing excellence at its finest. India emerged victorious, defeating New Zealand in a thrilling final on March 9, 2025, to claim their third Champions Trophy title. However, the tournament was not just about the winners; it was a stage where several players from different teams rose to the occasion, delivering performances that will be etched in cricketing history. The ICC has now announced the Team of the Tournament, featuring the standout performers who lit up the event with their brilliance. Let’s take a closer look at this star-studded lineup and the moments that defined their campaigns.

Team of the Tournament and Key Performances

1. Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand)

Rachin Ravindra was undoubtedly one of the brightest stars of the tournament. With 251 runs at an impressive average of 62.75, including two centuries, Ravindra was a cornerstone of New Zealand’s batting lineup. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball made him an invaluable asset. His spin bowling provided crucial breakthroughs, and his all-round excellence earned him the prestigious Player of the Tournament award.

• Memorable Moment: Ravindra’s breathtaking century against Bangladesh was a masterclass in composure and skill, setting the tone for New Zealand’s campaign.

2. Ibrahim Zadran (Afghanistan)

Afghanistan’s Ibrahim Zadran announced himself on the global stage with a record-breaking 177 against England, the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history. His 216 runs at an average of 72 were instrumental in Afghanistan’s competitive performances. Zadran’s ability to anchor the innings and play aggressive cricket when needed made him a standout opener.

• Memorable Moment: His monumental 177 against England not only secured a historic win for Afghanistan but also showcased his potential as a future great.

3. Virat Kohli (India)

The man they call King Kohli proved once again why he is considered one of the greatest of all time. With 218 runs at an average of 54.5, including a century, Kohli was the backbone of India’s batting. His 84 in the semi-final against Australia was a testament to his ability to perform under pressure. During the tournament, Kohli also crossed the milestone of 14,000 ODI runs, joining legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara in an elite club.

• Memorable Moment: Kohli’s 82nd international hundred was a reminder of his class and consistency, even at the age of 36.

4. Shreyas Iyer (India)

Shreyas Iyer was the glue that held India’s middle order together. With 243 runs at an average of 48.6, including two fifties, Iyer was a model of consistency. His ability to adapt to challenging batting conditions in Dubai was crucial for India’s success.

• Memorable Moment: Iyer’s crucial 45+ scores in India’s last four matches ensured the team always had a solid platform to build on.

5. KL Rahul (wk) (India)

KL Rahul was the unsung hero of India’s campaign. With 140 runs at a perfect average of 140, Rahul was the finisher India needed in crunch situations. His unbeaten 42* and 34* in the knockout stages against Australia and New Zealand were match-winning contributions. Behind the stumps, he was equally reliable, showcasing his versatility.

• Memorable Moment: Rahul’s towering six against Australia in the semi-final sealed India’s place in the final, underlining his ability to deliver in high-pressure moments.

6. Glenn Phillips (New Zealand)

Glenn Phillips was the ultimate all-rounder for New Zealand. With 177 runs, two wickets, and five catches, Phillips was a constant threat to opposition teams. His fielding was a highlight, with three stunning catches, including a jaw-dropping effort to dismiss Virat Kohli.

• Memorable Moment: Phillips’ acrobatic catch against Kohli in the group stage was one of the tournament’s most talked-about moments.

7. Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan)

Azmatullah Omarzai was Afghanistan’s all-round gem. With 126 runs and seven wickets, including a five-wicket haul against England, Omarzai proved his worth as a match-winner. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball made him a key player for Afghanistan.

• Memorable Moment: His 5/58 against England was a performance for the ages, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion.

8. Mitchell Santner (c) (New Zealand)

Mitchell Santner’s leadership and bowling were instrumental in New Zealand’s journey to the final. With nine wickets at an economy of 4.80, Santner was a model of consistency. His tactical acumen and calm demeanor under pressure earned him widespread praise.

• Memorable Moment: Santner’s three-wicket haul against South Africa was a masterclass in spin bowling.

9. Mohammed Shami (India)

Mohammed Shami was India’s go-to bowler in crunch situations. With nine wickets, including a five-wicket haul against Bangladesh, Shami was a constant threat to opposition batters. His ability to deliver in high-pressure games, especially in the semi-final and final, was crucial for India.

• Memorable Moment: Shami’s 5/53 against Bangladesh set the tone for India’s campaign.

10. Matt Henry (New Zealand)

Matt Henry was the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with ten wickets, but his absence in the final due to injury was a significant blow for New Zealand. His 5/42 against India in the group stage was one of the best bowling performances of the tournament.

• Memorable Moment: Henry’s stunning catch to dismiss Heinrich Klaasen was a testament to his athleticism.

11. Varun Chakaravarthy (India)

Varun Chakaravarthy’s story was one of redemption and resilience. With only one ODI under his belt before the tournament, the 33-year-old spinner took nine wickets in three high-stakes matches, proving his worth on the big stage.

• Memorable Moment: His virtuoso bowling performance against New Zealand in the final was a key factor in India’s victory.

12th Man: Axar Patel (India)

Axar Patel was the perfect utility player for India. With five wickets and 109 runs, including a crucial 29 in the final, Axar contributed in all facets of the game. His fielding was also top-notch, with two fine catches to his name.

• Memorable Moment: Axar’s all-round performance in the final was a fitting end to a stellar tournament.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was a celebration of cricketing talent, with players from across the globe stepping up to deliver unforgettable performances. The Team of the Tournament reflects the diversity and depth of talent on display, with each player earning their place through sheer brilliance. As fans, we can only hope that future tournaments continue to provide such moments of magic and inspiration.

                                               

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