In a recent interview, New Zealand’s young cricket sensation, Rachin Ravindra, shared his predictions for the finalists of the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy, inadvertently leaving out Team India from his forecast. The all-rounder’s comments were captured, where he expressed both optimism for his team and respect for the competition.

Rachin Ravindra Picks Australia As Finalists For Champions Trophy 2025

Ravindra, known for his impressive performances across formats, particularly in the 2023 ODI World Cup, highlighted the difficulty in predicting the finalists. “It’s always very hard to predict (finalists) that because you always want to say New Zealand because you’re involved. So hopefully, we’re there. I mean, we’ll take it game by game, and the other groups, it’s pretty hard to count out people like Australia. I think they’re a really good team, and they’ve shown how strong they are in all formats. Current holders of the ODI World Cup too. So hopefully, it’ll be a Trans-Tasman derby,” he remarked, clearly envisioning a final between New Zealand and Australia.

This prediction not only showcases Ravindra’s confidence in his team but also acknowledges Australia’s formidable presence in cricket, especially after their triumph in the 2023 ODI World Cup. His choice to highlight these two teams speaks volumes about his respect for the sport’s current dynamics and the competitive nature of international cricket.

Ravindra also shared his enthusiasm for the format of the Champions Trophy, which returns after a brief hiatus. “I think the format is amazing. Obviously, having a brief hiatus from the Champions Trophy and it coming back this year is very exciting. I think the format is amazing, being able to essentially play knockout games every single time. There’s context on every single game, which I think is super exciting and something I’m looking forward to. You always play cricket to try and push yourselves and try and win the game, so for every game to have that onus on it is great,” he stated, indicating his readiness for the challenge ahead.

The Champions Trophy has a rich history, with New Zealand clinching the title in 2000, showcasing their prowess in knockout competitions. However, their journey in subsequent tournaments has been marked by significant challenges, including a loss to Australia in the 2009 Champions Trophy finals. This history adds layers to Ravindra’s prediction, suggesting not just hope but also a recognition of the competitive spirit that defines cricket’s elite tournaments.

Ravindra’s omission of India from his prediction list might stir conversations among fans and analysts. India, with its rich cricketing heritage and a team filled with world-class players, is always a strong contender in any international tournament. Yet, Ravindra’s focus on a potential New Zealand-Australia final could be seen as a reflection of recent performances, strategic matchups, or perhaps a personal bias towards teams he’s more familiar with.

As the 2025 Champions Trophy approaches, Ravindra’s insights and predictions add to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the event. His comments not only fuel discussions but also highlight the unpredictable nature of cricket, where any team, on its day, can turn the tide. With the tournament set to be a spectacle of cricketing talent, strategy, and spirit, all eyes will be on how these predictions unfold on the field.