Published: Jan 31, 2025, 07:16 PM (IST)
Edited: Jan 31, 2025, 07:16 PM (IST)
Former England pacer Ryan Sidbottom has a belief that hosts Pakistan are the favourites for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. The event is set to begin February 19, and will be hosted by Pakistan themselves.
Sidebotton believes that the advantages of home grounds will give Pakistan the advantage, especially since they are the defending Champions of the tournament.
“Pakistan will have an advantage of home conditions and are among the favourites for the tournament,” Sidebottom said as quoted by Cricket Pakistan.
He then clarified that his support remains with his home team as he is an Englishman, adding his views about the bowling strength of Pakistan side.
“If Pakistani bowlers work harder, they can achieve great success. I am a fan of Wasim Akram and have learned a lot from him,” he said.
Champions Trophy 2025 is going to be held in a hybrid model, where India will play all their matches in Dubai. Apart from those matches, rest of the matches will be held between Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi. UAE will also host one of the semifinals. The venue for the final will depend on India’s outcome.
