Australia's hopes for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 rest heavily on the shoulders of all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, according to former Australian cricketer Shane Watson. The two-time Champions Trophy winner believes Maxwell's recent performance and immense potential could herald another title for Australia as they prepare for the tournament scheduled to kick off on February 22, 2025, at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium.
Watson, who will serve as one of four Event Ambassadors for the tournament, does not hold back when singing the praises of Maxwell, stating, "The stand-out player for me is Glenn Maxwell. With what I have seen recently, especially in the Big Bash, I believe he has some of his best cricket in front of him across the next two or three years and I would be very surprised if he does not dominate this Champions Trophy."
His confidence stems from Maxwell's explosive style of play, highlighted by his recent accolades as one of two Players of the Series during the Big Bash League season. This performance follows Maxwell's phenomenal innings against Afghanistan during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, where he scored an incredible double century. Yet, Watson reflects on the challenges Maxwell has faced, noting, "He has struggled to be consistent at times. That’s the nature of his role in the team."
Maxwell's role becomes even more central for the Australian side, as they face significant hurdles heading to Pakistan. The team has recently had only one win from their last five one-day internationals, raising questions about their ability to reclaim the trophy. The absence of key bowlers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc due to injury is another factor weighing on the team's prospects.
Despite these challenges, Watson remains optimistic, asserting, "I think Australia will be very hard to beat, even if their bowling squad is not quite as experienced as they might otherwise have been." He believes the circumstances—while troubling—could present opportunities for less experienced players, who will have to step up during this high-stakes tournament.
The Australian bowling lineup will be led by Nathan Ellis, Spencer Johnson, and Sean Abbott, who collectively have limited ODI experience. Watson emphasized the importance of these players executing well under pressure, stating, "You have to be at your very best in this event, with this format – you have to hit the ground sprinting, let alone running." He expressed excitement at how these bowlers, familiar with the high-pressure tactics of T20 competitions, might excel on such grand stages.
Looking at the competition, Australia has been placed in Group B, facing off against arch-rivals England, with their first match scheduled on February 22. Following England, they will take on South Africa on February 25 and Afghanistan on February 28. Watson acknowledged the challenges presented by these teams, particularly emphasizing India as formidable opponents. He remarked, "India have an incredibly strong squad and the conditions will suit them of course."
Watson's extensive background as someone who has formerly triumphed at two Champions Trophy tournaments gives weight to his insights. His optimism for Australia is buoyed by their potential to leverage Maxwell's unique talents and recent form. He expressed, "It now just feels like it has all fallen together for him, and that's with everything in his life, not just his cricket, so I think he will play a pivotal part."
With Maxwell leading the charge, Watson is convinced Australia remains a title contender, stating, "They may be inexperienced as a group, but these quicks have all played high-pressure cricket. They know how to execute under pressure.” The narrative around Maxwell and his role is pivotal, not only reflecting his own capabilities but also showcasing what may be the key to Australia's success or failure.
Shortly after the tournament's opening, fans and sports analysts alike will be watching to see whether Maxwell can deliver on Watson’s bold predictions. His potential to dominate could be the x-factor Australia desperately needs.