KABUL, Afghanistan — Afghanistan’s Ibrahim Zadran and Azmatullah Omarzai have been named in the ICC’s Team of the Tournament for the 2025 Champions Trophy, following their standout performances in the competition.
Zadran, Afghanistan’s opening batter, played a crucial role in his team’s campaign, scoring 216 runs at an average of 72. His 177-run knock against England not only secured a historic victory but also became the highest individual score in the tournament’s history.
All-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai also made a significant impact, contributing both with the bat and ball. He amassed 126 runs at an average of 42 while also taking seven wickets, including a match-winning five-wicket haul against England. Omarzai, who was named ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year in 2024, continued to showcase his versatility on the international stage.
India and New Zealand dominate the squad
India, the tournament winners, and runner-up New Zealand dominated the Team of the Tournament, with both sides having multiple players featured. New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra, named Player of the Tournament, topped the batting charts with 251 runs, while India’s Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer also made the XI for their consistent performances.
New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner, who led his side to the final, was named captain of the team, while India’s Mohammed Shami and New Zealand’s Matt Henry spearheaded the bowling attack.
India’s Varun Chakaravarthy, who had played just one ODI before the Champions Trophy, impressed with nine wickets in three matches. KL Rahul was named the team’s wicketkeeper, having played a key finishing role for India in the knockout stages.
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, held in the UAE, concluded with India defeating New Zealand in the final on March 9. The tournament saw several memorable performances, with Afghanistan’s rising stars making a lasting impression on the global stage.
