Mohammad Yousuf Picks Favorites for Champions Trophy 2025

Former Pakistan batting great Mohammad Yousuf has shared his thoughts on the favorites for the upcoming Champions Trophy. Yousuf has identified New Zealand and India as the most balanced teams heading into the competition but maintained a soft spot for Pakistan due to the home conditions, which he believes could ultimately be the deciding factor.

While Yousuf refrained from picking an outright favorite, he was particularly impressed with New Zealand’s squad balance and their ability to adapt to subcontinental conditions.

“It’s a big tournament, and momentum plays a huge role. For me, New Zealand appears to be the most balanced side,” Yousuf said. “They have a strong top six, three quality fast bowlers, and good spinners. Their wicketkeeper is an all-rounder, and they also have two spin-bowling all-rounders, which makes them a formidable team,” he added.

Yousuf also acknowledged India’s squad depth, labeling them as another well-balanced side that could be a major contender. India will play all its games in the UAE, potentially giving them a better chance of success on more familiar surfaces later in the tournament.

Despite praising New Zealand and India, Yousuf emphasized that Pakistan would benefit from home conditions, giving them a significant advantage. “Pakistan will be playing at home, which gives them an edge. But they need to play smart, calculated cricket throughout the tournament,” he advised.

The former batting maestro also had some advice for his home nation after observing the team’s struggles against spin in their tri-series final loss to New Zealand. He urged the team to rotate the strike better and limit dot balls in the middle overs.

“We have played on turning tracks recently, so we need to find gaps against spinners and keep the scoreboard ticking. With five fielders inside the circle, there are always scoring opportunities,” he noted.

With his thoughts, Mohammad Yousuf joins a myriad of pundits who have made their picks for the 2025 Champions Trophy. However, the time for off-field suggestions and forming team strategies is almost over, as the 2025 Champions Trophy is just hours away. The action now shifts to the playing fields as Pakistan and New Zealand prepare to lock horns once again in the tournament opener on February 19th in Karachi.