For the first time since 2017, the cricketing world will compete for the Champions Trophy. The One Day International Competition will feature eight teams, two groups, a semi-final and the final.
The tournament features several possible winners and a litany of underdogs and storylines to excite fans. Here is a quick breakdown of what can be expected from each of the eight teams.
Pakistan
The hosts and defending champions are currently ranked third for One Day International (ODI) teams. Pakistan have number one ranked ODI batter Babar Azam, an impressive young bowling attack, and are coming off a 3-0 series win against South Africa. Despite recent struggles, Shaheen Shah Afridi still averages only 23 in One Day cricket and Naseem Shah only 16.
India
The International Cricket Council's (ICC) number-one-ranked ODI team boasts a star-studded lineup. While talisman Virat Kohli has struggled of late, the presence of batting quality down to the ninth man, coupled with the brilliance of players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant, guarantees them runs.
A bowling attack featuring a returning Mohammed Shami and the unplayable Jasprit Bumrah, as well as their typical depth of spin bowling options also makes them a likely favourite.
Australia
Pat Cummins’ side come into the tournament with one goal, to complete the set. The reigning World Champions continue to look dangerous with their all-star bowling line-up and big run-scoring potential. Cummins, having won all other available ICC trophies as captain, will be bolstered by Steve Smith’s return to form, Travis Head’s destructive potential at the top of the order, and the enduring class of their bowlers.
England
Following a disastrous World Cup in 2023, England has sought to rebuild its ODI side. The likes of Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse and Jacob Bethell have brought a new life to the team, while Jos Butler, Adil Rashid, and the returning Joe Root bring some much-needed experience.
Above all, England’s problem is consistency. With Brendan McCullum bringing Bazball to the white ball side, England’s patented aggression may make or break their tournament.
New Zealand
After a golden era of New Zealand cricket, some of the Kiwi greats are starting to leave the international game. Despite going without the all-time great bowling duo Trent Boult and Tim Southee, the black caps have an experienced team, with a couple of exciting prospects. New Zealand's new captain, Mitchell Santner, will certainly like his chances for a spot in the knockouts.
South Africa
The Proteas boast one of the best bowling attacks in the world. While they will go without the injured pacer Anrich Nortje, players like Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen and spinner Keshav Maharaj make for a frightening prospect for any batter.
Bangladesh
Their year has featured many ups and downs winning 2-0 away in Pakistan in an August test series and losing 3-0 in an ODI series to the West Indies. Group A poses a tough challenge, but could they be this tournament’s underdogs?
Afghanistan
Afghanistan made the semi-finals of last year’s T20 World Cup, after a surprise win against Australia. Number one-ranked ODI bowler Rashid Khan remains a threat to any batting lineup, but a group consisting of Australia, South Africa, and England makes for a difficult obstacle.