The top 3 fast bowlers in ICC Champions Trophy 2025 rankings are in excellent form. With one leading the attack, another excelling in swing, and the third showcasing impressive performances in both international and domestic cricket, these bowlers are poised to play vital roles, making them key players to watch.
1. Mohammed Shami: India’s Resurgent Spearhead
Mohammed Shami’s journey to the Champions Trophy 2025 is truly inspirational. After being sidelined for over a year due to injuries, many doubted if the Bengal pacer would return to his peak form. However, Shami silenced his critics with a stellar comeback during the ODI series against England, reaffirming that class is permanent.
Shami’s effectiveness in subcontinental conditions is especially notable as India prepares for matches in Dubai. With Jasprit Bumrah out due to injury, Shami’s role becomes even more crucial. He is now expected to lead India’s bowling attack, a responsibility he is well-equipped to handle.
His recent performances have been promising, particularly in the England ODI series, where he showcased his ability to swing the new ball and reverse the old, taking key wickets at crucial moments. As India targets their third Champions Trophy title, much will depend on Shami’s ability to provide early breakthroughs and control the death overs.
With 99 wickets from 52 ODIs at an average of 24 in these conditions, Shami’s statistics make him a major threat on UAE pitches, where the Champions Trophy matches will be held.
2. Shaheen Afridi: Pakistan’s Left-Arm Menace
Shaheen Afridi has quickly emerged as one of the most feared new ball bowlers in world cricket. His ability to swing the ball both ways at high speeds makes him a constant threat, especially during the powerplay overs. This skill will be crucial in the Champions Trophy, where early breakthroughs can set the tone for the entire match.
Afridi’s familiarity with home conditions gives him an extra edge, with a strong record in Pakistan: 31 wickets from 16 ODIs. His experience in the UAE, where he has taken 13 wickets from six innings, further boosts Pakistan’s chances.
Though his recent performances in the Tri-Series against South Africa and New Zealand were mixed, Afridi’s six wickets in three matches showed his potential. However, he faced challenges against key batters, suggesting he may need to refine his strategies against top-order players.
3. Matt Henry: New Zealand’s Rising Star
Of the three bowlers discussed, Matt Henry enters the Champions Trophy with arguably the best recent form. His performances in the Tri-Series in Pakistan were pivotal in New Zealand’s victory, with standout figures of 3/53 and 2/59 in key matches.
Henry’s excellent form extends beyond international cricket. His recent Super Smash season was exceptional, claiming 11 wickets from six matches at an outstanding average of 8.27.
Such domestic dominance indicates that Henry is at the peak of his powers heading into the Champions Trophy, making him a bowler to watch in the tournament.