As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 nears, eight talented captains will lead their respective teams in one of cricket’s most eagerly anticipated tournaments. Set to take place in Pakistan over 19 days, this prestigious event promises intense action, fierce competition, and the determination of each leader to guide their team to victory.
Here’s a look at the captains of the top 8 ODI teams, their journeys, career highlights, and the challenges they face in this high-stakes tournament.
Hashmatullah Shahidi (Afghanistan)
A determined leader and left-handed batsman, Hashmatullah Shahidi steered Afghanistan to an unforgettable 2023 World Cup. Under his captaincy, Afghanistan stunned England and Pakistan, cementing their position as a rising force in world cricket. With Afghanistan making their debut in the Champions Trophy, Shahidi remains confident in his team’s ability to compete with the best.
“We have the talent to beat every side in every format,” Shahidi says, eager to prove Afghanistan’s growing strength on the big stage.
Steve Smith (Australia)
Steve Smith returns to lead Australia, having previously captained them in the 2017 Champions Trophy. With Pat Cummins unavailable, the seasoned right-hander is entrusted with guiding the defending ODI world champions toward their third title. Smith, a key figure in Australia’s recent dominance in white-ball and red-ball cricket, is focused on maximizing his squad’s potential.
“They all have their own unique skills. My role is to bring out the best in them at the right time,” says Smith.
Nazmul Hossain Shanto (Bangladesh)
At just 26, Nazmul Hossain Shanto is ready to lead Bangladesh in his third ICC event. Amid a period of transition for the team, Shanto is hopeful that Bangladesh will overcome previous disappointments and secure their first ICC title.
“We all want to win the trophy,” Shanto says with confidence. “If we execute our plans, we can win.”
Jos Buttler (England)
England’s dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, Jos Buttler, has already led his team to victory in the 2019 ODI World Cup and the 2022 T20 World Cup. Now, Buttler is focused on guiding England to their first Champions Trophy win. Despite recent struggles, Buttler believes the squad has the potential to rise to the occasion when it matters the most.
“The fact that we haven’t played at our best yet gives us something to aim for,” Buttler shares.
Rohit Sharma (India)
A veteran of the Champions Trophy, Rohit Sharma led India to their 2013 title and is now determined to add another trophy to his career. Following a dominant 2023 ODI World Cup and T20 World Cup triumphs, Sharma remains confident in India’s aggressive batting approach and their momentum heading into the tournament.
“There is freedom in the squad to go out there and play the way you are supposed to play,” says Sharma, stressing the team’s aggressive philosophy.
Mitchell Santner (New Zealand)
Mitchell Santner steps into his first ICC event as captain of New Zealand, after successfully leading his team to an unbeaten Tri-Nation series win. New Zealand has been a consistent performer in ICC tournaments, and Santner is optimistic about taking them further in the Champions Trophy.
“It is nice to win, but it means nothing until we play that first game at the Champions Trophy,” Santner comments, aware of the bigger challenge ahead.
Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan)
Mohammad Rizwan enters the Champions Trophy as the captain of defending champions Pakistan, leading them on home soil. Rizwan has proven his leadership with historic series wins in Australia and South Africa and aims to defend Pakistan’s 2017 Champions Trophy title.
“Hosting the Champions Trophy is a proud moment for us,” Rizwan says, determined to perform in front of his home crowd.
Temba Bavuma (South Africa)
In his first Champions Trophy, Temba Bavuma is tasked with guiding South Africa to their first major ICC title since 1998. Following a semi-final finish at the 2023 ODI World Cup, Bavuma acknowledges the challenge of the shorter format and is ready to lead his team from the front.
“We have to be at our best from the very start,” Bavuma says, fully aware of the pressure the tournament brings.
Conclusion
As the Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, these eight captains, with their varying leadership styles, will be at the forefront of an exciting and high-pressure tournament. The stakes are high, and with world-class talent on display, the Champions Trophy promises to deliver unforgettable moments of cricketing brilliance.
