Champions Trophy 2025 – Five Rising Stars to Watch in Pakistan & UAE

The ICC Champions Trophy is back after a long hiatus! Last played in 2017, when Pakistan lifted the trophy in England, the prestigious 50-over tournament makes its return in 2025, with matches set to take place in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates starting this Wednesday.

As the second-most significant ICC ODI tournament after the World Cup, the Champions Trophy is a prime stage for emerging cricketers to make a name for themselves under the global spotlight. With that in mind, here are five rising stars who could leave a lasting impact on the tournament.

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1. Ryan Rickelton (South Africa)

South African opener Ryan Rickelton may not be a newcomer, but he’s still carving out his place in international cricket. The MI Cape Town batter dominated the domestic scene with a sensational 259-run knock in the New Year Test against Pakistan.

After recovering from injury, he carried his form into the SA20 tournament, where he finished as the fourth-highest run-scorer with a strike rate of 178.72 and an average of 48. While franchise T20 cricket is a step down from international ODIs, Rickelton has already proven he has the form and temperament to shine for the Proteas. Expect big things from him in this tournament.

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2. Varun Chakravarthy (India)

India arrives at the Champions Trophy 2025 with arguably the strongest squad despite missing Jasprit Bumrah due to injury. One surprise inclusion is Varun Chakravarthy, a mystery leg-spinner who has already troubled top-tier batters in T20 internationals.

Although he has played just one ODI so far, his T20I record (18 wickets at an average of 14.57) highlights his wicket-taking ability. While he may not be India’s first-choice spinner, he could be a game-changer if given the opportunity in Pakistan’s conditions.

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3. Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand)

A complete white-ball all-rounder, Rachin Ravindra brings versatility to the New Zealand squad. Whether it’s batting at the top or middle order, bowling spin, or excelling in the field, he adds depth and flexibility to the Black Caps lineup.

At 25 years old, Ravindra has already played 29 ODIs, averaging 40.41 with the bat. Surrounded by experienced players like Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, and Will Young, he has the perfect environment to continue his impressive rise on the international stage.

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4. Noor Ahmad (Afghanistan)

Afghanistan continues to produce world-class spinners, and Noor Ahmad is the next big name to watch. Still just 20 years old, Noor has already played over 130 T20 matches and made his first-class debut at just 14.

While his ODI numbers (9 wickets in 10 matches, average of 57.22) aren’t extraordinary yet, he remains a highly promising talent. Noor was the sixth-highest wicket-taker in SA20, showing he can succeed against high-quality opposition. With Rashid Khan leading Afghanistan’s spin attack, Noor has a golden opportunity to learn and step into the limelight.

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5. Jake Fraser-McGurk (Australia)

At just 22 years old, Jake Fraser-McGurk is one of Australia’s most exciting young batters. Known for his explosive stroke play, he has yet to fully translate his domestic success into international cricket, but the Champions Trophy could be his breakout moment.

His ODI numbers so far aren’t exceptional (average of 14, strike rate of 132.43), but Australia’s squad has been hit by injuries and retirements, creating an opportunity for Fraser-McGurk to cement his place at the top of the order. If he finds form in Pakistan’s batting-friendly conditions, he could emerge as a star for the Aussies.

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Who Will Shine in the Champions Trophy 2025?

With Pakistan and the UAE hosting this year’s ICC Champions Trophy, the stage is set for these young talents to make a name for themselves. Will one of them become the tournament’s breakout star?