As the Champions Trophy 2025 kicks off on Wednesday across Pakistan and Dubai, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has highlighted five emerging players who could leave a lasting impression on the prestigious 50-over tournament.
Varun Chakravarthy (India)
India’s 33-year-old wrist-spinner, Varun Chakravarthy, is set to play a crucial role on Dubai’s slow pitches. After making his ODI debut against England this month, he has quickly become a key asset for India’s bowling lineup.
Chakravarthy was instrumental in India’s 4-1 T20 series victory, taking 14 wickets. His performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has also been impressive, with 21 wickets contributing to Kolkata Knight Riders’ title win last year.
Tayyab Tahir (Pakistan)
Tayyab Tahir, a 31-year-old middle-order batsman, made headlines during the 2023 Emerging Teams Asia Cup, where he led Pakistan to victory against India with a match-winning century in the final.
Although Tahir’s international experience is limited to a few T20 appearances and his ODI debut last year. His aggressive batting style has caught the attention of cricket legends. Wasim Akram described him as a “very exciting talent” after his impressive performance in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Tom Banton (England)
England’s 26-year-old opener Tom Banton returned to the ODI scene after a four-year absence, scoring 38 runs in the final ODI against India in Ahmedabad.
Banton replaced the injured Jacob Bethell in England’s Champions Trophy squad. He has been in fine form, leading the batting charts in the United Arab Emirates’ premier competition with 493 runs, including two centuries in 11 innings.
Aaron Hardie (Australia)
With Marcus Stoinis retiring, Aaron Hardie steps in as Australia’s seam-bowling all-rounder. The 26-year-old recently impressed in Colombo against Sri Lanka, claiming 2-13 with the ball and scoring 32 runs.
Hardie first gained attention in 2018 when he dismissed Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in a tour match. Since making his white-ball debut in 2023, he has shown promise and is now vying for a permanent place in the Australian squad.
Will O’Rourke (New Zealand)
At 23 years old, Will O’Rourke is New Zealand’s rising fast-bowling star. Standing 6 feet 4 inches tall, he has already played nine ODIs and will be making his ICC tournament debut in the Champions Trophy.
O’Rourke made an impressive Test debut against South Africa, taking nine wickets, and recently starred in Karachi, securing 4-43 to help New Zealand win the tri-series final against Pakistan. With Ben Sears unavailable and Lockie Ferguson recovering from injury. O’Rourke will be a key figure alongside Matt Henry in New Zealand’s pace attack.
Champions Trophy 2025 Opener
The Champions Trophy will begin with an exciting clash between New Zealand and Pakistan at the National Stadium in Karachi. With these five rising stars poised to shine, the tournament promises to deliver thrilling cricket action.
Stay tuned for the latest sports updates and learn how to watch the ICC Champions Trophy live in Canada and the USA.
