As the countdown begins for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed looks back at his team’s historic victory in the 2017 edition and shares his predictions for the upcoming tournament. For Sarfaraz, leading Pakistan to its first-ever Champions Trophy title was an unforgettable moment that cemented his place in cricketing history.
In 2017, under Sarfaraz’s leadership, Pakistan defeated India by 180 runs in the final, a victory that stunned many cricket pundits and fans. Reflecting on that incredible achievement, Sarfaraz described the feeling as “indescribable.” The victory was not only a triumph for Pakistan but also a testament to the team’s resilience and strategic brilliance. Sarfaraz credits the collective effort of the team, which managed to rise to the occasion despite being considered underdogs by many.
Fast forward to 2025, Sarfaraz remains optimistic about Pakistan’s chances of defending their title in the upcoming Champions Trophy. He points out that the current team has a solid mix of experienced players and fresh talent. With players like Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi leading from the front, Sarfaraz believes Pakistan has a strong chance of repeating their success. His confidence in the team’s depth is reflected in his prediction for the tournament.
Sarfaraz has identified four teams that he believes will make it to the semifinals of the 2025 Champions Trophy. The first team on his list is, of course, Pakistan, given the strength and form they’ve displayed in recent international matches. He also predicts that India, with their history of consistent performances in ICC tournaments, will be a tough competitor for any team in the competition. Australia, another powerhouse in international cricket, is another team Sarfaraz considers a strong contender for the semifinals, owing to their record in global events.
The fourth team Sarfaraz highlights is Afghanistan, a team that has rapidly evolved over the years. Sarfaraz acknowledges Afghanistan’s growth in international cricket and believes they have the potential to upset established teams in the 2025 tournament. While these are his top four picks, he adds that the nature of cricket makes it impossible to rule out any team, especially in a tournament like the Champions Trophy where surprises are often around the corner.
Looking ahead to Pakistan’s opening clash with India, Sarfaraz has some advice for his former teammates. He stresses the importance of staying calm and focused, especially in high-pressure situations. With the intensity of an India-Pakistan match, Sarfaraz knows the psychological battle can often outweigh the physical one. He believes Pakistan’s strength lies in their ability to stay composed and execute their plans effectively. Sarfaraz also highlighted the importance of experienced players like Babar Azam, who can anchor the innings and guide the team through tough situations.
Sarfaraz Ahmed’s contributions to the game have been recognized, and he is now serving as one of the ambassadors for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. His journey from the 2017 victory to the present day serves as an inspiration to players and fans alike, as he continues to play a key role in promoting the game. With the Champions Trophy 2025 just around the corner, Sarfaraz’s reflections and predictions offer an intriguing glimpse into what promises to be a highly competitive tournament.