The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is on the horizon, promising thrilling cricket with a blend of seasoned warriors and emerging talents. Among the players expected to make significant impacts are three from the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) team. Here’s an in-depth look at how Virat Kohli, Josh Hazlewood, and Jacob Bethell might set the tournament on fire.
Virat Kohli
With India having announced their squad, all eyes are on Virat Kohli, whose form in white-ball cricket is nothing short of extraordinary. In the realm of ODIs, Kohli’s statistics are mind-boggling: 295 matches, 283 innings, with an average of 58.18 and a strike rate of 93.54, amassing 13,906 runs with 50 centuries and 72 fifties. His highest score of 183 is a testament to his capability to anchor the innings and then explode when needed. Kohli’s knack for performing in big games is legendary, making him a central figure for India’s campaign at the Champions Trophy. His ability to adapt to different match situations, especially in the 50-over format, where he has been one of the most consistent performers, is expected to be a vital asset. Kohli’s experience, combined with his recent form, positions him as a player who could very well dictate the tempo of matches, turning them in India’s favor with both his bat and his tactical acumen.
Josh Hazlewood
Josh Hazlewood, with his precise line and length, has been an integral part of Australia’s bowling attack. In ODIs, he has played 91 matches, capturing 144 wickets at an average of 27.26 and an economy rate of 4.76. His best figures of 6/52 showcase his ability to break partnerships and control the game’s flow during crucial stages. Hazlewood’s mastery over swing, particularly in the initial overs, can set the tone for Australia’s innings. His experience in South Asian conditions, although limited, has shown promise, and he’s known to adapt swiftly to different pitches. His role will be pivotal in providing early breakthroughs and managing the middle overs, which could be decisive in the Champions Trophy. Hazlewood’s work ethic and consistency make him a bowler capable of disrupting even the strongest batting line-ups, potentially setting the tournament alight with his performances.
Jacob Bethell
Jacob Bethell, an emerging talent from England, brings a unique dual threat to the table with his batting and bowling capabilities. In his nascent ODI career, he has played 8 matches, scoring 167 runs at an average of 27.83 and a strike rate of 80.28, including one fifty. His highest score of 55 is indicative of his potential to stabilize or accelerate the innings as per the team’s needs. On the bowling front, he has taken 4 wickets at an average of 36.00, showing he can contribute significantly even with the ball. Bethell’s ability to bowl off-spin adds an extra dimension to England’s already potent bowling attack, offering them flexibility in their strategy. His performances in domestic cricket have been promising, and his inclusion in the England squad for the Champions Trophy is a nod to his all-round capabilities. Bethell’s youth and versatility might just be the wildcard that England needs to navigate through the tournament’s challenges, potentially making him one of the breakout stars of the event.
As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, these three Royal Challengers Bengaluru players are poised to leave indelible marks on the tournament. Virat Kohli’s batting prowess, Josh Hazlewood’s bowling mastery, and Jacob Bethell’s all-round skills could very well ignite the competition, turning matches into memorable spectacles of cricketing excellence. Each player, through their unique strengths, reflects the depth and quality of RCB’s squad, contributing to what promises to be a fiercely contested tournament. Their performances will not only be crucial for their national teams but will also keep the fans of RCB around the world enthralled and hopeful for a showcase of their talents on the biggest stage.
