India’s triumphant ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign saw stellar performances from key players, while stars from other teams lit up the tournament with unforgettable feats. Here’s a look at the standout performers who made this edition one to remember.
By Rohan Patil
India emerged victorious in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, securing a thrilling four-wicket win over New Zealand in the final in Dubai. Throughout the tournament, India displayed sheer dominance, blending experienced leadership with rising talent to claim their third Champions Trophy title. The final was a tense affair, but crucial performances from India’s star players ensured they remained unbeaten in the tournament.
As the dust settles on yet another exhilarating cricket tournament, let’s turn the spotlight on the players who lit up the tournament with their performances.
Player of the Tournament: Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand)
Rachin Ravindra was the standout performer of the competition, finishing as the tournament’s highest run-scorer with 263 runs. The young left-hander displayed remarkable composure under pressure, crafting two centuries, including a crucial 112 against Bangladesh and a stunning 108 in the semi-final against South Africa. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when required made him an invaluable asset for New Zealand.
Hitman: Virat Kohli (India)
Virat Kohli continued to prove why he is one of the best batsmen in the world. The Indian stalwart amassed 218 runs in the tournament, including a crucial century against arch-rivals Pakistan. His experience and temperament were on full display in the semi-final against Australia, where he played a composed 84-run knock to guide India to victory. Kohli’s presence at number three provided India with stability, ensuring that they never faltered under pressure.
Powerhouse: Shreyas Iyer (India)
Shreyas Iyer was one of India’s most consistent performers, finishing as the team’s highest run-getter with 243 runs. His ability to play both anchor and aggressor roles made him a crucial cog in India’s batting lineup. Two vital half-centuries played a key role in India’s unbeaten campaign, and his calm approach in high-pressure situations was commendable. His contributions were instrumental in ensuring India remained dominant throughout the tournament.
The Unshakable Finisher: KL Rahul (India)
KL Rahul played the role of a finisher to perfection, ending the tournament with an astonishing average of 140. While he did not amass as many runs as some of his teammates, his unbeaten knocks in the semi-final (42*) and the final (34*) proved invaluable. Rahul’s ability to absorb pressure and guide India over the line in tense chases was one of the defining aspects of their victorious campaign.
Record-Breaker: Ibrahim Zadran (Afghanistan)
Afghanistan made history in this tournament by securing their first-ever ICC tournament win. At the forefront of this success was their young opener, Ibrahim Zadran. His record-breaking knock of 177 against England was the highestever individual score in Champions Trophy history, solidifying his reputation as one of the most promising batters in world cricket. Zadran’s fearless approach and attacking style were instrumental in Afghanistan’s campaign.
All-Round Brilliance: Glenn Phillips (New Zealand)
Glenn Phillips was a key player for New Zealand, contributing with both the bat and in the field. His remarkable one-handed diving catch to dismiss Shubman Gill in the final was one of the highlights of the tournament. Apart from his fielding heroics, Phillips also made vital contributions with the bat, including a half-century against Pakistan and a crucial unbeaten 49 in the semi-final. His ability to chip in with the ball, taking two wickets against South Africa, made him a true all-rounder.
Emerging Spark: Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan)
Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai was another revelation in the tournament, impressing with both bat and ball. He finished with seven wickets and scored 126 runs, demonstrating his versatility as an all-rounder. Omarzai played a key role in Afghanistan’s historic victory, and his consistent performances showcased the growing depth of Afghan cricket.
The Maestro: Mitchell Santner (New Zealand)
New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner was named the captain of the ICC’s Best XI, a testament to his leadership and all-round capabilities. Santner picked up nine wickets in the tournament, finishing as the joint second-highest wickettaker. His ability to break partnerships at crucial junctures made him a key figure in New Zealand’s bowling attack. In the final, his spell was instrumental in keeping India in check, dismissing both Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer.
The Comeback Star: Mohammed Shami (India)
Making a strong return from injury, Mohammed Shami reaffirmed his place as one of the best fast bowlers in the world. The Indian pacer finished with nine wickets, providing crucial breakthroughs when needed. His ability to generate movement and pick wickets in the powerplay set the tone for India’s bowling attack throughout the tournament.
Wicket-Master: Matt Henry (New Zealand)
New Zealand’s Matt Henry ended the tournament as the highest wicket-taker, scalping 10 wickets at an average of 16.70. His ability to extract bounce and seam movement troubled batters across teams. Unfortunately, a shoulder injury forced him to miss the final, but his performances leading up to it ensured New Zealand reached the summit clash.
The Spin Sensation: Varun Chakravarthy (India)
Varun Chakravarthy proved to be a surprise package for India, finishing with nine wickets in just three matches. His mystery spin was difficult to decipher, and his ability to bowl in pressure situations made him a standout performer. Chakravarthy’s knack for picking key wickets added another dimension to India’s bowling attack.
What A Show!!
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was a tournament filled with spectacular individual performances, nail-biting encounters, and historic milestones. India’s unbeaten run to the title was a testament to their all-round brilliance, while New Zealand’s spirited performances showcased their resilience. Afghanistan’s rise as a competitive force added to the excitement, proving that they are no longer underdogs in world cricket. With young stars like Rachin Ravindra, Ibrahim Zadran and Azmatullah Omarzai making headlines, the future of international cricket looks bright.
