Champions Trophy 2025: 'If I had to pick a winner...': England legend Darren Gough names Favourites to Lift Trophy

Former England bowler Darren Gough has predicted the favourites to win the Champions Trophy 2025.

The ICC tournament is currently being held in Pakistan in Dubai. After the first six group stage matches, hosts Pakistan already found them ousted from the tournament, along with their Asian counterparts Bangladesh.

Gough, who is currently in Mumbai for the International Masters League, spoke to MyKhel in an Exclusive Interview and opined on the current scenario of the coveted ICC tournament.

When asked about the teams which have impressed him, Gough named two teams who have made a decent start to the tournament.

"South Africa and New Zealand have both looked really solid. Their performances in the first game were strong, and they seem to have a well-balanced approach. England, on the other hand, have been inconsistent. When they get it right, they're brilliant to watch, but there's a lack of consistency."

India favourites to win CT 2025

India have already qualified for the semifinals and Gough believes Rohit Sharma and his troops are the favourites to lift the trophy. With Pakistan now eliminated from the tournament, the final shall also be held in Dubai.

"If you look at the groups, India is almost certain to qualify. I think New Zealand will join them from that group. In the other group, South Africa should definitely go through. I initially tipped Afghanistan, but they are under pressure now. That group is much harder to predict, but I'd still back Afghanistan to cause an upset. If they reach the semi-finals, anything can happen. If I had to pick a winner, I'd go with India. They look extremely solid. Last time, they won every game except the final, and this time, they seem just as dominant."