Dhaka: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially announced the final squad lists for the eight teams that will compete in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy set to take place in the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan from February 19 to March 9.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, this marks the first ICC Champions Trophy since its last edition in England in 2017, where Pakistan emerged as the victors after a memorable win against India. The tournament will feature the world’s top eight cricket teams, divided into two groups. Group A includes Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and New Zealand, while Group B features Australia, England, South Africa, and Afghanistan. Notably absent are Sri Lanka and West Indies, both of whom have previously won the ICC Cricket World Cup but failed to qualify for this tournament. Sri Lanka’s exit was confirmed following their defeat to Bangladesh in the 2023 World Cup in India.
The ICC’s press release detailed the composition of each group, with Bangladesh aiming to build on their semi-final appearance in the last Champions Trophy. Led by captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, the team features experienced players like Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur Rahim, alongside promising talents such as Nahid Rana and Rishad Hossain.
India’s squad is led by Rohit Sharma and includes eight players from their recent ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 victory. Despite the absence of Jasprit Bumrah due to injury, the team boasts a strong lineup with players like Virat Kohli and Mohammed Shami.
New Zealand will be captained by Mitchell Santner for the first time in an ICC event. The squad includes seasoned players like Kane Williamson and Devon Conway, alongside newcomers eager to make their mark.
Pakistan, the defending champions, will look to repeat their 2017 success with key players like Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam. The team is captained by Mohammad Rizwan and features a formidable pace attack.
In Group B, Afghanistan made a late change to their squad due to injuries but will rely on star spinner Rashid Khan and batsman Ibrahim Zadran to lead their charge. Australia, led by Steve Smith, will compete without several key players due to injuries and personal reasons, but still field a strong team including Travis Head and Glenn Maxwell.
England’s squad, captained by Jos Buttler, sees the inclusion of Tom Banton and the return of Joe Root. The team also features fast bowler Jofra Archer, who will be crucial to their campaign.
South Africa faces a setback with the injury of Anrich Nortje but will be led by Temba Bavuma. The squad includes a mix of experienced players and new talent, with Kagiso Rabada spearheading the bowling attack.