Team India stars Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, and Axar Patel shared their thoughts on the most dangerous players from rival teams in an Instagram video posted by the ICC. The trio, currently in Dubai for the 2025 Champions Trophy, highlighted key opponents who could pose a challenge.
Jadeja identified Australia’s Glenn Maxwell and England captain Jos Buttler as formidable match-winners. Shami singled out New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra, praising his aggressive approach and shot-making ability. Axar Patel, meanwhile, picked South African power-hitter Heinrich Klaasen, acknowledging his impact in the middle order.
“He had an outstanding T20 World Cup, displaying a wide range of shots across the field. He’s a key threat in the middle overs.”
Heinrich Klaasen smashed a fiery half-century in the 2024 T20 World Cup final, including a 24-run over against Axar Patel. His explosive knock gave the Proteas an edge in the chase, but Jasprit Bumrah and his teammates staged a late comeback to secure victory for the Men in Blue.
India will take on New Zealand on Sunday (March 2) in their final group-stage clash of the 2025 Champions Trophy, with the winner securing the top spot in Group A.
Former cricketer Aakash Chopra encouraged Team India to aim for the No. 1 position and voiced confidence in their ability to overcome Australia in a potential semi-final. Sharing his thoughts in a video on his YouTube channel, Chopra stated:
“Our goal is simple—win and finish as No. 1. By the time tomorrow’s game ends, South Africa could take the top spot, and we might face Australia in the semis, but that’s fine. Yes, we lost the World Cup final to them, but we also defeated them in the league stage.”
“Australia’s bowling attack has performed well, but it doesn’t feel unbeatable. We’ve beaten South Africa on their turf recently, as well as in the 2023 World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup final.”
