Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit Sharma Most Runs, 2-Time Champions To Win 3rd Title- Ex Australia Captain Makes Candid Predictions

Michael Clarke, ex Australia captain has backed India to win the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, naming Rohit Sharma as the tournament's leading run-scorer. India head into the tournament with strong momentum, having secured a 3-0 ODI series win against England.

Rohit, who had been struggling with form in recent months, delivered a brilliant knock of 119 off 90 balls in the final ODI in Cuttack, finishing the series with 122 runs across three games.

Clarke, speaking on the Beyond23 Cricket Podcast, emphasized how important the Indian captain's resurgence is for India's campaign.

"Well, I am saying India is going to win (Champions Trophy). I am going to go with their captain, who's back in form. I am going to say Rohit Sharma-leading run scorer in the tournament," Clarke stated. He further added, "It's good to see him making runs again. I think India need him for sure."

Rohit boasts an impressive record in the Champions Trophy, having accumulated 481 runs in just 10 matches at an average of 53.44, including four half-centuries and a century. He also ranks as India's fourth-highest run-getter in the history of the tournament.

Apart from backing Rohit, Clarke also shared his picks for the tournament's standout performer and top wicket-taker. The former Aussie skipper believes that England pacer Jofra Archer will finish as the highest wicket-taker despite England not being among the favorites.

"I want to go with Jofra Archer-leading wicket-taker. I know England; I am not expecting them to do that well, but I think he's a superstar," Clarke remarked.

For the Player of the Tournament honor, Clarke chose Australian opener Travis Head, citing his recent performances and IPL success as key factors.

"I am going to go with Travis Head (for Player of the Tournament). His IPL form was phenomenal. He is ready to go again," he added.

India are placed with Pakistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand in Group A and will kick-start their campaign against the Bangla Tigers on 20th February.