Former Cricketer Basit Ali Reveals His Best Playing XI from ICC Champions Trophy 2025
After India’s historic win in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali shared his ideal playing XI from the tournament. India secured their third title in the championship, defeating New Zealand in a thrilling final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
India Dominates Basit Ali’s Playing XI
Despite Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with no wins to their name, Basit Ali’s playing XI featured six Indian players. The former cricketer selected Indian skipper Rohit Sharma as the captain of his team, highlighting Sharma’s exceptional leadership and his crucial fifty in the final against New Zealand.
Rohit Sharma was joined by Rachin Ravindra as his opening partner, with Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer completing Basit’s top four. Ravindra’s two centuries, Kohli’s standout performances in the knockout stages, and Iyer’s consistent contributions made them standout performers in the tournament.
A Strong Middle Order and Bowling Attack
For the middle order, Basit Ali chose KL Rahul as the wicketkeeper, followed by New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips and Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai. Phillips’ all-round skills and fielding abilities, along with Omarzai’s impressive performances, earned them spots in the lineup.
Basit’s bowling attack included Mitchell Santner and Varun Chakravarthy as the spinners, while Matt Henry and Mohammad Shami were selected as the pace bowling specialists. Basit Ali emphasized the importance of performances in Dubai while finalizing his playing XI.
Basit Ali’s Selection Criteria
During a discussion on his YouTube channel, Basit Ali explained his choices, stating, “My captain is Rohit Sharma. He has led from the front, and his 76 in the final was a game-changer. I have considered performances in Dubai and selected the best players accordingly.”
Basit also highlighted the performances of Rachin Ravindra, Virat Kohli, and Shreyas Iyer, emphasizing their crucial roles in India’s success in the tournament. He praised Glenn Phillips for his versatility as a fielder, batter, and bowler, placing him at number six in his playing XI.
Final Lineup and Absence of Certain Teams
Basit Ali’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Playing XI consisted of Rohit Sharma (C), Rachin Ravindra, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Glenn Phillips, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, Mohammad Shami, and Varun Chakravarthy. Notably, players from England, Australia, and South Africa were absent from Basit’s lineup.
Overall, Basit Ali’s expert analysis and selection criteria shed light on the standout performers of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, showcasing the talent and skill displayed by players from various teams throughout the tournament.
India’s Dominance in ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 saw India’s remarkable dominance, culminating in their third title win in the championship. Led by the dynamic Rohit Sharma, the Indian team showcased exceptional skill and strategy throughout the tournament. Rohit Sharma’s leadership on the field, coupled with his crucial innings in the final, solidified his position as a key player in Basit Ali’s playing XI.
Rachin Ravindra, the young opening batsman, emerged as a standout performer with his consistent performances at the top of the order. His partnership with Rohit Sharma laid a strong foundation for India’s success in the tournament. Additionally, the presence of Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer in Basit Ali’s lineup highlighted the depth and talent of India’s batting lineup, which proved to be a formidable force against their opponents.
Key Players in Basit Ali’s Playing XI
Basit Ali’s selection of players like KL Rahul, Glenn Phillips, and Azmatullah Omarzai underscored the importance of all-round skills and versatility in modern cricket. KL Rahul’s role as the wicketkeeper added depth to the team’s batting order, while Glenn Phillips’ ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game made him a valuable asset in Basit’s lineup.
Azmatullah Omarzai’s inclusion highlighted the emergence of talent from associate nations in global cricket tournaments. His performances showcased the growing competitiveness and skill level of players from countries beyond the traditional powerhouses of the sport.
Strategic Bowling Attack
Basit Ali’s emphasis on the performance of spinners like Mitchell Santner and Varun Chakravarthy reflected the evolving role of spin bowling in limited-overs cricket. Both players played pivotal roles in stifling opposition batsmen and taking crucial wickets, contributing to their team’s success in the tournament.
With pace bowlers like Matt Henry and Mohammad Shami in the lineup, Basit Ali’s playing XI boasted a well-rounded bowling attack capable of adapting to different match situations. The combination of spin and pace provided the team with the necessary tools to excel in various conditions and against different opponents.
Insights from Basit Ali’s Selection Criteria
Basit Ali’s meticulous selection criteria, based on performances in Dubai, highlighted the significance of adapting to unfamiliar conditions in international tournaments. The ability of players to thrive in pressure situations and deliver when it matters most played a crucial role in determining their inclusion in his playing XI.
By focusing on the standout performers from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Basit Ali shed light on the talent and potential present in the cricketing landscape. His expert analysis and keen eye for talent showcased the diversity and depth of skill among players from different teams, underscoring the competitive nature of modern cricket.
Conclusion: Celebrating Cricket’s Brightest Stars
Basit Ali’s selection of his best playing XI from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 not only honored the exceptional performances of individual players but also celebrated the spirit of competition and sportsmanship that defines cricket. The tournament served as a platform for showcasing the talents of players from around the world, highlighting the beauty and excitement of the sport.
As cricket continues to evolve and captivate audiences globally, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 stands as a testament to the skill, dedication, and passion of the athletes who grace the field. Basit Ali’s insights offer a unique perspective on the tournament and the players who left an indelible mark on the cricketing world.
