Pandya: Every Player Aims to Bring the Trophy Back Home in Champions Trophy
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Synopsis
Hardik Pandya emphasizes the team's commitment to winning the Champions Trophy. India begins its campaign against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by matches against Pakistan and New Zealand. The tournament highlights the return of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, with Pakistan hosting and Afghanistan making its debut.
Key Takeaways
- Hardik Pandya asserts team commitment to win the Champions Trophy.
- India will play Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand in Group A.
- The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy returns, enhancing the ODI format.
- Afghanistan makes its first appearance in the tournament.
- Pakistan, as hosts, aims to defend their 2017 title.
New Delhi, Jan 22 (NationPress) India’s fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya stated that every member of the team is dedicated to bringing the Champions Trophy back home once more by displaying their distinctive style of cricket during the eight-team tournament. India, having won the Champions Trophy twice, will kick off their Group A campaign in the 2025 edition against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai, followed by a match against archrivals Pakistan on February 23, and then facing New Zealand on March 2.
“The return of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy is a tremendous advantage for cricket, adding depth and context to the One-Day format. This legendary tournament is set to rekindle enthusiasm among fans and players alike. India is prepared to display its unique style of cricket, with every player committed to bringing the trophy home once more,” Pandya mentioned in a tournament release.
The remaining matches will take place in Pakistan, as the tournament is scheduled from February 19 to March 9. England batter Phil Salt remarked, "Playing for England in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy is a significant privilege. We understand it’s going to be a highly competitive tournament, but we have a thrilling team, and we are going to give our utmost effort to lift the trophy.”
The forthcoming tournament will mark the first appearance of Afghanistan in the competition, with all-rounder Mohammad Nabi stating: “It’s Afghanistan’s inaugural participation at the Men’s Champions Trophy, and we are eager to compete against the best and make our nation proud.”
Pakistan last claimed the Champions Trophy in 2017 after defeating India in the final, and left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi expressed, “For Pakistan, cricket is more than just a sport—it’s our passion, our pride, our identity. As the defending champions and hosts, there’s everything to strive for. I’m confident that all of Pakistan is eagerly anticipating the 19th of February; it promises to be an extraordinary spectacle.”
