Hardik Pandya has expressed confidence that India’s players are fully committed to bringing the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy back home. The all-rounder highlighted that the team is eager to showcase their distinct style of cricket in the eight-nation tournament. India, with two previous Champions Trophy wins, will kick off their Group A campaign against Bangladesh on February 20, 2025, in Dubai. They will then face archrivals Pakistan on February 23, followed by New Zealand on March 2.

Pandya noted the significance of the tournament’s return, noting that it will increase the One-Day format’s appeal and bring renewed excitement to both fans and players.

“The return of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy is a significant boost to cricket, adding depth and context to the One-Day format. This iconic tournament promises to reignite excitement among fans and players alike. India is ready to showcase its unique brand of cricket, with every player committed to bringing the trophy home again,” Hardik Pandya said in a tournament release.

Meanwhile, England batter Phil Salt sees playing in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy as a great honor. He acknowledged the fierce competition in the tournament but expressed confidence in his team’s abilities, aiming to give their best for the title.

“Playing for England in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy is a huge honor. We know it’s going to be a very competitive tournament but we have an exciting group and we are going to give it our best effort to lift the trophy,” Salt said.

This edition will mark Afghanistan’s first appearance in the tournament, and all-rounder Mohammad Nabi shared excitement about facing top teams and making their country proud.

“It’s Afghanistan’s first time at the Men’s Champions Trophy, we can’t wait to compete against the best of the best and make our nation proud,’ Nabi added.

Pakistan, the 2017 Champions Trophy winners, will defend their title as hosts. Matches will be played in Pakistan, with the tournament running until March 9.