Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has predicted that India’s skipper Rohit Sharma will emerge as the highest run-scorer in the 2025 Champions Trophy. The eight-team tournament is set to take place from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan and Dubai.
Clarke also tipped England’s star pacer Jofra Archer to finish as the leading wicket-taker in the tournament. Additionally, he backed fellow Australian Travis Head to claim the Player of the Tournament honor. Sharing his Champions Trophy predictions on the Beyond23 Cricket podcast, Clarke stated [as quoted by Hindustan Times]:
“I am going to say Rohit Sharma—leading run scorer in the tournament. It’s good to see him making runs again. I think India need him for sure. I want to go with Jofra Archer—leading wicket-taker.”
”I know England; I am not expecting them to do that well, but I think he’s a superstar. I think Jofra is going to be really hard to play. So, I am going to have him as my leading wicket-taker.”
He further added: “I am going to go with Travis Head (for Player of the Tournament). Travis Head has been in terrific form. His IPL form was phenomenal. Australian Test summer form phenomenal. He has had a bit of a break in Sri Lanka. He is ready to go again. So, I am going to say Travis Head Player of the Tournament even though I think Australia might lose the final.”
Michael Clarke Predicts India to Defeat Australia in 2025 Champions Trophy Final
Michael Clarke has forecasted a rematch of the 2023 ODI World Cup final in the upcoming Champions Trophy, with the same teams competing. However, he believes the outcome will be different this time, predicting an Indian victory over Australia in the final. In the 2023 ODI World Cup final, Australia defeated India by six wickets.
“My fingers are crossed for Australia, so I am going to say Australia is going to be one of them, and I think they are going to play India in the final. (Repeat of the 2023 ODI World Cup final) that’s what I am hoping for.”
“You know what, I think India is going to beat Australia in the final. Can’t believe that just came out of my mouth. I think India is going to win the tournament. I am going with them,” Clarke said on the same podcast.
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