「私はパキスタン、インドと」

The ICC Champions Trophy is just around the corner. Now, former Pakistan pace great Shoaib Akhtar has made his predictions of the teams that will make it to the semi-finals. Apart from keeping India and Pakistan, Akhtar has made some bold predictions. The Rawalpindi Express hasn’t pinned its hopes on Australia, however, has claimed that Afghanistan can make it to the top 4.

The top 8 teams of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 will be taking part in this tournament. In almost 3 decades, Pakistan would be hosting an ICC tournament. Meanwhile, Team India has refused to travel to Pakistan and thus would be playing all their matches in Dubai.

No Australia, but India and Pakistan are firm favorites

Shoaib Akhtar has not picked ODI World Cup champions Australia to reach the semi-finals. Instead, he has picked up a surprise wildcard option. He believes that if Afghanistan shows maturity, then they can make it to the top 4 of the tournament.

“I believe Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan will reach the semi-finals of the 2025 Champions Trophy. If Afghanistan’s team shows maturity during the event, they could make it to the semi-finals,” Akhtar said as quoted by CricketPakistan.com.

Afghanistan has been the surprise package at every ICC tournament. Often known as giant killers, the Afghans have taken down some mighty teams. They finished sixth in the 2023 ODI World Cup, showcasing their great form in ICC events.

Pakistan to win coveted rivalry

The world patiently awaits the India vs Pakistan clash on 23rd February. However, Akhtar has backed his side to win against their arch-rivals. He also claimed that he believes that both sides should meet again in the final.

“I’m hopeful that Pakistan will defeat India on February 23. In fact, I believe that both Pakistan and India should also meet in the final of the tournament,” Akhtar concluded.