<p>As Bangladesh gears up for the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025, the cricketing world watches with keen interest. With a squad that emphasises on fighting spirit more than star power, Bangladesh faces a formidable challenge in a group stacked with cricketing giants.</p>
<p>The absence of stalwarts like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shakib-al-hasan">Shakib Al Hasan</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/tamim-iqbal">Tamim Iqbal</a> marks the dawn of a new era for the team, with fresh faces and emerging talents tasked with carrying the nation&rsquo;s cricketing hopes. This analysis delves into the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that could shape Bangladesh's journey in this prestigious tournament.</p>
<h2>Strengths</h2>
<p><strong>Experienced core: </strong>Bangladesh's backbone lies in its seasoned campaigners. The presence of veterans like Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah brings invaluable experience to the team. With 272 ODIs, Mushfiqur's ability to anchor the innings is a vital asset, while Mahmudullah's consistency and composure in the middle order provide stability.</p>
<p>Their combined leadership and tactical acumen will be essential in navigating high-pressure situations and guiding younger players on the global stage.</p>
<p><strong>Strong pace attack: </strong>The pace department is spearheaded by Taskin Ahmed and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mustafizur-rahman" rel="dofollow">Mustafizur Rahman</a>, both of whom have proven track records. Taskin, having emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the latest Bangladesh Premier League with 25 scalps, offers sharp bounce and aggression.</p>
<p>Mustafizur&rsquo;s deceptive cutters and death-over expertise add a different dimension to the attack. Young talents like Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Nahid Rana provide depth, promising a well-rounded pace arsenal.</p>
<h2>Weaknesses</h2>
<p><strong>Absence of key players: </strong>Missing Shakib Al Hasan due to suspension is a massive blow. His dual ability to control the game with both bat and ball has been pivotal for Bangladesh. Without Shakib, the middle order looks vulnerable, and the spin department lacks a proven match-winner.</p>
<p>Litton Das' omission, following a string of poor performances, leaves the top order without its aggressive opener. His absence could result in a more cautious start, potentially affecting Bangladesh&rsquo;s scoring momentum.</p>
<p><strong>Batting inconsistency: </strong>The top-order inconsistency is a major concern. Players like Tanzid Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto have struggled to string together reliable scores, with averages below 30 in recent series.&nbsp;The lack of left-handed options beyond Soumya Sarkar makes the lineup predictable, allowing opposition bowlers to devise effective strategies.</p>
<h2>Opportunities</h2>
<p><strong>Leadership of Najmul Hossain Shanto: </strong>Shanto's captaincy offers a fresh tactical outlook. His recent performances suggest a growing maturity, and leading the side in such a tournament provides an opportunity to build a resilient, unified team.&nbsp;A successful campaign could cement his role as a long-term leader for Bangladesh.</p>
<p><strong>Emerging talents: </strong>Young players like Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Towhid Hridoy have shown immense promise in domestic circuits. Tanzid&rsquo;s impressive BPL season, where he scored 485 runs at an average of 44.09, highlights his potential.&nbsp;Tanzim Hasan Sakib, with 16 wickets in 9 BPL matches, has a golden opportunity to make his mark and secure his spot in the national setup.</p>
<h2>Threats</h2>
<p><strong>Inexperience in high-stakes matches: </strong>While promising, the younger members of the squad lack experience in high-pressure international matches. This inexperience might lead to costly lapses in judgment, especially in crunch situations.&nbsp;The coaching staff needs to prepare the team mentally and tactically to withstand the rigors of the Champions Trophy.</p>
<p><strong>Formidable group stage opponents: </strong>Bangladesh finds itself in a challenging group with India, Pakistan, and New Zealand&mdash;all teams with strong ICC tournament records. Recent series losses to teams like the West Indies and Afghanistan have exposed Bangladesh&rsquo;s vulnerabilities, particularly in chasing or setting competitive totals. Overcoming both the psychological and on-field challenges of facing such formidable opponents will be a tall task.</p>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p>Bangladesh enters the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as underdogs, with a squad that emphasises resilience over raw power. The experienced core of Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah provides a stabilising presence, while the pace attack led by Taskin and Mustafizur holds promise.</p>
<p>However, the absence of Shakib Al Hasan and Litton Das leaves significant gaps, and batting inconsistencies remain a pressing issue. If emerging talents like Tanzid Hasan and Towhid Hridoy can rise to the occasion, Bangladesh could spring a surprise or two.</p>

Cricket, Sports: With a squad that emphasises on fighting spirit more than star power, Bangladesh faces a formidable challenge in a group stacked with cricketing giants

As Bangladesh gears up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the cricketing world watches with keen interest. With a squad that emphasises on fighting spirit more than star power, Bangladesh faces a formidable challenge in a group stacked with cricketing giants. The absence of stalwarts like Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal marks the dawn of a new era for the team, with fresh faces and emerging talents tasked with carrying the nation’s cricketing hopes. This analysis delves into the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that could shape Bangladesh's journey in this prestigious tournament. Strengths Experienced core: Bangladesh's backbone lies in its seasoned campaigners. The presence of veterans like Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah brings invaluable experience to the team. With 272 ODIs, Mushfiqur's ability to anchor the innings is a vital asset, while Mahmudullah's consistency and composure in the middle order provide stability. Their combined leadership and tactical acumen will be essential in navigating high-pressure situations and guiding younger players on the global stage. Strong pace attack: The pace department is spearheaded by Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman, both of whom have proven track records. Taskin, having emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the latest Bangladesh Premier League with 25 scalps, offers sharp bounce and aggression. Mustafizur’s deceptive cutters and death-over expertise add a different dimension to the attack. Young talents like Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Nahid Rana provide depth, promising a well-rounded pace arsenal. Weaknesses Absence of key players: Missing Shakib Al Hasan due to suspension is a massive blow. His dual ability to control the game with both bat and ball has been pivotal for Bangladesh. Without Shakib, the middle order looks vulnerable, and the spin department lacks a proven match-winner. Litton Das' omission, following a string of poor performances, leaves the top order without its aggressive opener. His absence could result in a more cautious start, potentially affecting Bangladesh’s scoring momentum. Batting inconsistency: The top-order inconsistency is a major concern. Players like Tanzid Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto have struggled to string together reliable scores, with averages below 30 in recent series. The lack of left-handed options beyond Soumya Sarkar makes the lineup predictable, allowing opposition bowlers to devise effective strategies. Opportunities Leadership of Najmul Hossain Shanto: Shanto's captaincy offers a fresh tactical outlook. His recent performances suggest a growing maturity, and leading the side in such a tournament provides an opportunity to build a resilient, unified team. A successful campaign could cement his role as a long-term leader for Bangladesh. Emerging talents: Young players like Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Towhid Hridoy have shown immense promise in domestic circuits. Tanzid’s impressive BPL season, where he scored 485 runs at an average of 44.09, highlights his potential. Tanzim Hasan Sakib, with 16 wickets in 9 BPL matches, has a golden opportunity to make his mark and secure his spot in the national setup. Threats Inexperience in high-stakes matches: While promising, the younger members of the squad lack experience in high-pressure international matches. This inexperience might lead to costly lapses in judgment, especially in crunch situations. The coaching staff needs to prepare the team mentally and tactically to withstand the rigors of the Champions Trophy. Formidable group stage opponents: Bangladesh finds itself in a challenging group with India, Pakistan, and New Zealand—all teams with strong ICC tournament records. Recent series losses to teams like the West Indies and Afghanistan have exposed Bangladesh’s vulnerabilities, particularly in chasing or setting competitive totals. Overcoming both the psychological and on-field challenges of facing such formidable opponents will be a tall task. Conclusion Bangladesh enters the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as underdogs, with a squad that emphasises resilience over raw power. The experienced core of Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah provides a stabilising presence, while the pace attack led by Taskin and Mustafizur holds promise. However, the absence of Shakib Al Hasan and Litton Das leaves significant gaps, and batting inconsistencies remain a pressing issue. If emerging talents like Tanzid Hasan and Towhid Hridoy can rise to the occasion, Bangladesh could spring a surprise or two.

SWOT analysis | Champions Trophy 2025: Underdogs with fighting spirit - Can Bangladesh overcome the odds?

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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0" paraid="1629711104" paraeid="{a3073ec8-220b-4dba-8bb5-c75dca473b20}{34}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Afghanistan's journey to the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025 marks a historic milestone for the team as they make their maiden appearance in this prestigious 50-over tournament. </span></span></p>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0" paraid="1629711104" paraeid="{a3073ec8-220b-4dba-8bb5-c75dca473b20}{34}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Placed in a challenging group with Australia, England, and South Africa, Afghanistan have an exciting opportunity to showcase their growth as a cricketing powerhouse. With their formidable spin attack, dynamic opening pair, and familiarity with the conditions in Pakistan, they could surprise many. Here&rsquo;s a SWOT analysis of their prospects.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="2020717947" paraeid="{234878f8-4953-402d-b9ce-75ffc583ec29}{37}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Strengths</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></h2>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1316884564" paraeid="{234878f8-4953-402d-b9ce-75ffc583ec29}{53}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">World-class spin attack: </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rashid-khan">Rashid Khan</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammad-nabi">Mohammad Nabi</a>, Noor Ahmad, and Nangeyalia Kharote form one of the most lethal spin departments in the tournament. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Rashid Khan&rsquo;s exceptional economy rate (4.2) and wicket-taking ability provide a huge advantage on spin-friendly tracks. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Even with the absence of Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Afghanistan&rsquo;s depth in spin remains unmatched.</span></span><strong><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></strong></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1474813412" paraeid="{234878f8-4953-402d-b9ce-75ffc583ec29}{117}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Explosive opening pair: </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran&rsquo;s consistent opening stands (48.83 average partnership) set the tone for strong batting starts. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Their complementary styles ensure a balance of aggression and stability.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="506709327" paraeid="{234878f8-4953-402d-b9ce-75ffc583ec29}{173}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Familiar conditions:&nbsp;</span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Playing in Karachi and Lahore offers Afghanistan a home-like advantage, with spin-friendly pitches that suit their strength. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Many players have PSL experience, which helps them acclimatise quickly.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="174495284" paraeid="{234878f8-4953-402d-b9ce-75ffc583ec29}{213}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Weaknesses</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></strong></h2>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1227894875" paraeid="{234878f8-4953-402d-b9ce-75ffc583ec29}{229}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Middle-order inconsistency: </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Hashmatullah Shahidi, Rahmat Shah, and Gulbadin Naib have struggled for form, with averages below 33 since 2024. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Over-reliance on the top order makes Afghanistan vulnerable to collapses.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="227223250" paraeid="{b494191e-dddb-40f8-82ed-56b54f81cfc1}{22}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Inexperienced pace attack: </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Fazalhaq Farooqi leads the seam unit, but the support cast (Azmatullah Omarzai, Fareed Ahmad, Naveed Zadran) lacks experience against top-tier teams. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">High economy rates and inconsistent wicket-taking could hurt them on batting-friendly tracks.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="798391803" paraeid="{b494191e-dddb-40f8-82ed-56b54f81cfc1}{70}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Opportunities</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></strong></h2>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1919788337" paraeid="{b494191e-dddb-40f8-82ed-56b54f81cfc1}{134}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Young guns to shine:&nbsp;</span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Sediqullah Atal, Noor Ahmad, Nangeyalia Kharote, and Naveed Zadran have a chance to make a name for themselves on the world stage. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">A breakout tournament from any of these young talents could give Afghanistan a competitive edge.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="623599004" paraeid="{b494191e-dddb-40f8-82ed-56b54f81cfc1}{182}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Favourable spin conditions: </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">With pitches likely to offer turn, Afghanistan&rsquo;s spinners could dominate and create match-winning scenarios.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="804895409" paraeid="{b494191e-dddb-40f8-82ed-56b54f81cfc1}{214}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Threats</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></h2>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1294981189" paraeid="{b494191e-dddb-40f8-82ed-56b54f81cfc1}{230}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Formidable group stage opponents: </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Facing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/australia-cricket">Australia</a>, England, and South Africa means Afghanistan cannot afford any slip-ups. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">All three teams have strong batting lineups and seam attacks that can expose Afghanistan&rsquo;s weaknesses.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="887505251" paraeid="{8a4679e0-eb44-480d-9aba-ef55fa16205e}{23}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Lack of ODI exposure: </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Afghanistan&rsquo;s last ODI series was in December 2024 against Zimbabwe, which may leave them undercooked in the 50-over format. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">This lack of match practice could impact their rhythm and ability to perform under pressure.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1729730137" paraeid="{8a4679e0-eb44-480d-9aba-ef55fa16205e}{71}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Afghanistan have the talent and conditions to create upsets in the Champions Trophy 2025. Their spin attack is their biggest strength, and if they exploit the pitches well, they could challenge even the strongest teams. However, to progress beyond the group stage, they must address their middle-order woes, strengthen their pace unit, and improve their chasing record. A semi-final spot is within reach, but only if they bring their A-game consistently.</span></span></p>
</div>

Cricket, Sports: Placed in a challenging group with Australia, England, and South Africa, Afghanistan have an opportunity to showcase their growth as a cricketing powerhouse.

Afghanistan's journey to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 marks a historic milestone for the team as they make their maiden appearance in this prestigious 50-over tournament. Placed in a challenging group with Australia, England, and South Africa, Afghanistan have an exciting opportunity to showcase their growth as a cricketing powerhouse. With their formidable spin attack, dynamic opening pair, and familiarity with the conditions in Pakistan, they could surprise many. Here’s a SWOT analysis of their prospects. Strengths World-class spin attack: Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, Noor Ahmad, and Nangeyalia Kharote form one of the most lethal spin departments in the tournament. Rashid Khan’s exceptional economy rate (4.2) and wicket-taking ability provide a huge advantage on spin-friendly tracks. Even with the absence of Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Afghanistan’s depth in spin remains unmatched. Explosive opening pair: Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran’s consistent opening stands (48.83 average partnership) set the tone for strong batting starts. Their complementary styles ensure a balance of aggression and stability. Familiar conditions: Playing in Karachi and Lahore offers Afghanistan a home-like advantage, with spin-friendly pitches that suit their strength. Many players have PSL experience, which helps them acclimatise quickly. Weaknesses Middle-order inconsistency: Hashmatullah Shahidi, Rahmat Shah, and Gulbadin Naib have struggled for form, with averages below 33 since 2024. Over-reliance on the top order makes Afghanistan vulnerable to collapses. Inexperienced pace attack: Fazalhaq Farooqi leads the seam unit, but the support cast (Azmatullah Omarzai, Fareed Ahmad, Naveed Zadran) lacks experience against top-tier teams. High economy rates and inconsistent wicket-taking could hurt them on batting-friendly tracks. Opportunities Young guns to shine: Sediqullah Atal, Noor Ahmad, Nangeyalia Kharote, and Naveed Zadran have a chance to make a name for themselves on the world stage. A breakout tournament from any of these young talents could give Afghanistan a competitive edge. Favourable spin conditions: With pitches likely to offer turn, Afghanistan’s spinners could dominate and create match-winning scenarios. Threats Formidable group stage opponents: Facing Australia, England, and South Africa means Afghanistan cannot afford any slip-ups. All three teams have strong batting lineups and seam attacks that can expose Afghanistan’s weaknesses. Lack of ODI exposure: Afghanistan’s last ODI series was in December 2024 against Zimbabwe, which may leave them undercooked in the 50-over format. This lack of match practice could impact their rhythm and ability to perform under pressure. Afghanistan have the talent and conditions to create upsets in the Champions Trophy 2025. Their spin attack is their biggest strength, and if they exploit the pitches well, they could challenge even the strongest teams. However, to progress beyond the group stage, they must address their middle-order woes, strengthen their pace unit, and improve their chasing record. A semi-final spot is within reach, but only if they bring their A-game consistently.

SWOT analysis | Champions Trophy 2025: Spinners, stars, and surprises-Can Afghanistan spin their way to success?

<p>The 2024 T20 World Cup winner, India, is among the outright favourites for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy-2025" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> starting February 19 in Pakistan. The Men in Blue have already arrived in Dubai, a venue picked (for them) under the hybrid model, and will host all India matches, including the knockouts, should India qualify for the semis and final.</p>
<h2>Here is the SWOT analysis of Team India at the Champions Trophy 2025 &ndash;</h2>
<h3>Strengths &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>India&rsquo;s strength remains in their batting and has always been. India perhaps has the most daunting top six among all teams, with everyone capable of winning the game on their own.&nbsp;</li>
<li>India&rsquo;s ability to adapt to the playing conditions and get acclimatised to the pitch will benefit them throughout the tournament.</li>
<li>Besides, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/axar-patel" rel="dofollow">Axar Patel</a>&rsquo;s new role as a floater boosts the team's morale, something they used to their advantage in the recently concluded England ODIs.</li>
<li>The spin powerhouse, including all kinds of spinners, will give the captain a cushion to pick from depending on the opposition and the wicket on offer.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h3>Weaknesses &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>India&rsquo;s dependence on the top order has cost them enough in the past decade, having lost the last edition (in 2017) and the 2019 World Cup because of that.&nbsp;</li>
<li><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya" rel="dofollow">Hardik Pandya</a>&rsquo;s form with the bat worries the team, while the same goes for the twin spin all-rounders &ndash; Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, who, on odd days, could fail to provide enough assistance with the bat.</li>
<li>Lack of depth in the pace attack &ndash; in the absence of ace seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah</a>, who got ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury, the onus would fall on Mohammed Shami, who continues to find his rhythm in the ODIs. The inexperienced duo of Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana could cost India at some point in the tournament.</li>
<li>Not enough batters and backups &ndash; India picked a bowlers-dominated squad with as many as eight specialist bowlers. Though the remaining seven batters are tough nuts to crack, chances of a collective failure on the day when it matters the most would haunt India till the end.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Opportunities &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>Low on confidence heading into the eight-team tournament, the Indian openers should put the grave memories behind them and aim for glory in the Champions Trophy&mdash;something similar to what they did during the home ODI World Cup&mdash;starting aggressively.</li>
<li>The newcomers in the seam attack&mdash;Harshit and Arshdeep&mdash;have an opportunity to make a name for themselves, coming out of the shadow of heavyweights like Shami and Bumrah.</li>
<li>Should India decide to play Varun Chakravarthy at any stage in the tournament, he can showcase his skill on the biggest stage and against the toughest opponents.</li>
<li>Having lost several ICC white-ball tournaments since last winning the Champions Trophy 12 years ago in England, Team India has an excellent opportunity to deliver and bring home the trophy.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Threats &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>India should avoid early collapses, mainly against teams having left-arm seamers, including Pakistan and Australia.</li>
<li>Unlike how they performed in the ODI World Cup Final (against Australia), scoring no boundaries in the middle overs, they could suffer the same fate should they deploy a submissive approach.&nbsp;</li>
<li>More often than not, Rohit has looked clueless when his bowlers are leaking runs, and with almost all teams trying to attack to win this time, Rohit could find himself in the same position.</li>
<li>Crumble under pressure: India does well and play fearless cricket until the day of the final, and if they wish to win another ICC trophy in two years, they must bury it and play aggressively in the knockouts.</li>
</ul>
<p>India are placed in Group A, alongside the host and archrivals Pakistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh. While India play their tournament opener against Bangladesh, they take on Pakistan in a marquee clash next before facing the Blackcaps in their final league game.&nbsp;</p>

Cricket, Sports: While India plays their tournament opener against Bangladesh, they take on Pakistan in a marquee clash next before facing the Blackcaps in their final group match.

The 2024 T20 World Cup winner, India, is among the outright favourites for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 starting February 19 in Pakistan. The Men in Blue have already arrived in Dubai, a venue picked (for them) under the hybrid model, and will host all India matches, including the knockouts, should India qualify for the semis and final. Here is the SWOT analysis of Team India at the Champions Trophy 2025 – Strengths – India’s strength remains in their batting and has always been. India perhaps has the most daunting top six among all teams, with everyone capable of winning the game on their own. India’s ability to adapt to the playing conditions and get acclimatised to the pitch will benefit them throughout the tournament. Besides, Axar Patel’s new role as a floater boosts the team's morale, something they used to their advantage in the recently concluded England ODIs. The spin powerhouse, including all kinds of spinners, will give the captain a cushion to pick from depending on the opposition and the wicket on offer. Weaknesses – India’s dependence on the top order has cost them enough in the past decade, having lost the last edition (in 2017) and the 2019 World Cup because of that. Hardik Pandya’s form with the bat worries the team, while the same goes for the twin spin all-rounders – Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, who, on odd days, could fail to provide enough assistance with the bat. Lack of depth in the pace attack – in the absence of ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah, who got ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury, the onus would fall on Mohammed Shami, who continues to find his rhythm in the ODIs. The inexperienced duo of Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana could cost India at some point in the tournament. Not enough batters and backups – India picked a bowlers-dominated squad with as many as eight specialist bowlers. Though the remaining seven batters are tough nuts to crack, chances of a collective failure on the day when it matters the most would haunt India till the end. Opportunities – Low on confidence heading into the eight-team tournament, the Indian openers should put the grave memories behind them and aim for glory in the Champions Trophy—something similar to what they did during the home ODI World Cup—starting aggressively. The newcomers in the seam attack—Harshit and Arshdeep—have an opportunity to make a name for themselves, coming out of the shadow of heavyweights like Shami and Bumrah. Should India decide to play Varun Chakravarthy at any stage in the tournament, he can showcase his skill on the biggest stage and against the toughest opponents. Having lost several ICC white-ball tournaments since last winning the Champions Trophy 12 years ago in England, Team India has an excellent opportunity to deliver and bring home the trophy. Threats – India should avoid early collapses, mainly against teams having left-arm seamers, including Pakistan and Australia. Unlike how they performed in the ODI World Cup Final (against Australia), scoring no boundaries in the middle overs, they could suffer the same fate should they deploy a submissive approach. More often than not, Rohit has looked clueless when his bowlers are leaking runs, and with almost all teams trying to attack to win this time, Rohit could find himself in the same position. Crumble under pressure: India does well and play fearless cricket until the day of the final, and if they wish to win another ICC trophy in two years, they must bury it and play aggressively in the knockouts. India are placed in Group A, alongside the host and archrivals Pakistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh. While India play their tournament opener against Bangladesh, they take on Pakistan in a marquee clash next before facing the Blackcaps in their final league game.

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