Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir boldly predicted that Team India will not reach the semi-finals of the 2025 Champions Trophy, citing Jasprit Bumrah’s absence as a key factor. Amir expressed confidence in New Zealand and Pakistan’s chances, stating that New Zealand has the most balanced side in Group A and predicting they will defeat India in Dubai. He highlighted concerns about Mohammed Shami’s form following his return from injury. Despite India’s strong historical performance, including their 2013 Champions Trophy win, Amir believes they will struggle against a competitive New Zealand team. The tournament marks a significant return of ICC events to Pakistan.
Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir made a bold prediction before the 2025 Champions Trophy, suggesting that Team India would not reach the semi-finals. Amir, who was part of the Pakistan team that won the Champions Trophy in 2017, highlighted that the absence of Jasprit Bumrah would be a critical factor leading to India’s failure to advance from the group stage. He believes both Pakistan and New Zealand will secure victories over India under the conditions in Dubai.
During an appearance on the Pakistan-based show ‘Haarna Mana Hai‘, Amir stated that New Zealand has the most balanced team in Group A.
“I consider New Zealand to be the most balanced team in Group A. Not India,” Amir remarked.
“I believe that New Zealand and Pakistan will qualify from Group A,” he added.
“India is significantly disadvantaged without Jasprit Bumrah. Mohammed Shami has just returned from injury and isn’t performing like his old self. I don’t think he can be relied upon,” Amir clarified.
“New Zealand is doing well with their batting, their fast bowlers are in form, and all three spinners – Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, and Glenn Phillips – are performing effectively,” Amir noted.
“I think New Zealand will defeat India in Dubai. Considering their current form, I see them winning against India there,” Amir asserted.
India has a strong legacy in the Champions Trophy, having clinched the title in 2013 and reached the finals in 2017. They also showcased a commanding performance in the 2023 World Cup, where they reached the finals and dominated England 3-0 in their home ODI series leading up to the tournament.
Conversely, New Zealand has defeated Pakistan twice in their journey towards winning a tri-nation series against them and South Africa.
Champions Trophy 2025
India enters the 2025 Champions Trophy as one of the frontrunners for the title, and they will benefit from playing all their matches at a single venue in Dubai.
Meanwhile, Pakistan arrives at the tournament as the reigning champions, having triumphed over India in the 2017 final.
The 2025 Champions Trophy carries increased significance for Pakistan as it represents the return of a major ICC event to their soil for the first time in nearly thirty years, since they co-hosted the 1996 World Cup with India and Sri Lanka.
India, Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh are placed in Group A, while world champions Australia, England, South Africa, and Afghanistan make up Group B.
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