Champions Trophy 2025: Michael Vaughan picks the ‘player to watch out’ for England

England‘s pursuit of their first ICC Men’s Champions Trophy title carries significant weight, given their history of near misses and high expectations. Having already clinched the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the Champions Trophy remains the only major white-ball trophy absent from their collection.

England’s quest for maiden Champions Trophy glory

Twice before, England came heartbreakingly close to lifting the trophy, only to fall short – first in 2004 under Michael Vaughan at The Oval against the West Indies in the final and again in the 2013 final under Alastair Cook at Edgbaston against India. Now, as they gear up for the 2025 edition in Pakistan, England’s hopes rest on a full-strength squad, a renewed tactical approach, and the aggressive philosophy of their new white-ball head coach, Brendon McCullum. England’s campaign for their maiden Champions Trophy title begins on February 22, when they take on arch-rivals Australia in Lahore. They will then face Afghanistan on February 26 at the same venue before concluding their group stage against South Africa in Karachi on March 1.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Broadcast, Live Streaming details: When and where to watch in India, Pakistan, USA, UAE, other countries

Michael Vaughan names the player to watch out for England

Former England cricketer Vaughan has identified Joe Root as the key player for England’s success in the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy. Speaking to Cricbuzz, Vaughan emphasized that Root’s role is pivotal in England’s 50-over setup, describing him as the ‘glue’ that holds the batting lineup together. Root, known for his consistency and adaptability, will be crucial in ensuring the stability of the batting order, especially in the challenging conditions of Pakistan and Dubai. Vaughan further highlighted that if Root can produce standout performances, such as scoring two or three centuries during the tournament, England’s chances of success would significantly improve.

“The key player for England uh across 50 overs is Joe root. Joe Root’s got to be that glue that one player that the rest can kind of bat around and if he can get two 300s within that this space of a few weeks in Pakistan Dubai England will be very very competitive,” Vaughan said.

Also READ: Mark Butcher explains why England cannot win the Champions Trophy 2025

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