Watson Backs Maxwell to Lead AUS to Glory in ICC CT 2025

Watson Confident in Maxwell’s Match-Winning Prowess for ICC CT 2025

Shane Watson has placed his faith in Glenn Maxwell to inspire AUS to triumph at the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. The former all-rounder believes Maxwell, despite being 36 years old, is set to deliver some of his finest performances in the coming years.

Maxwell’s recent form in the Big Bash League, where he was named one of the Players of the Series, has solidified Watson’s conviction that the experienced cricketer will be a pivotal force in AUS’ title chase. As reigning ODI world champions and currently ranked second in the ICC ODI standings, AUS heads to PAK with high expectations. However, with only one win in their last five ODIs and key pacers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc absent, doubts have emerged regarding their chances.

Watson, a two-time ICC CT winner and one of four Event Ambassadors for the 2025 edition, remains optimistic. He firmly believes that AUS will be a formidable opponent, particularly if Maxwell is in top form.

“The stand-out player for me is Glenn Maxwell,” Watson remarked. “From what I’ve seen in the Big Bash, I genuinely believe his best cricket is ahead of him. I’d be very surprised if he doesn’t dominate this Champions Trophy.”

Maxwell’s iconic double century against AFG in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 remains a testament to his game-changing abilities. While consistency has been a challenge for the dynamic all-rounder, Watson feels that everything in his life both on and off the field has now aligned, making him a critical asset for AUS.

“I think AUS will be very hard to beat, even with their bowling unit lacking experience,” Watson added.

Rising Fast Bowling Stars for AUS

Watson’s confidence in AUS is also based on its emerging fast bowlers. With Cummins, Hazlewood, and Starc unavailable due to injury and personal reasons, the responsibility falls on a new generation of pacers.

Nathan Ellis and Spencer Johnson, aged 30 and 29, respectively, have only 10 ODI caps between them, while Sean Abbott leads the pack with 26. Watson is eager to see these rising talents seize their moment on the international stage.

“You have to be at your absolute best in this tournament. With this format, you need to hit the ground sprinting,” Watson emphasized. “Spencer Johnson doesn’t swing the ball much, but he’s fast, tall, and generates impressive bounce. Sean Abbott has always been solid with the older ball, and Nathan Ellis is an incredibly skilled and underrated bowler.”

Having performed exceptionally in high-pressure franchise tournaments like the Big Bash, these bowlers have already proven their ability to execute under pressure. Watson believes the Champions Trophy presents the perfect opportunity for them to showcase their potential at the international level.

AUS Set for Thrilling Group Stage Battles

AUS kicks off its Group B campaign against ENG in Lahore before taking on SA in Rawalpindi on February 25 and AFG in Lahore on February 28. Watson expects a thrilling tournament and sees IND and SA as serious contenders alongside AUS.

“IND has an incredibly strong squad, and the conditions will naturally suit them,” Watson observed. “They have had minimal player turnover from the last World Cup, which is a huge advantage. Hardik Pandya, if he stays fit, will be a game-changer.”

Watson is also backing SA to finally break their ICC tournament jinx. With a world-class batting lineup featuring Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller, along with an effective bowling attack, he sees them as a real threat.

“They reached the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, and they have the talent to go all the way,” Watson said. “This generation of SA cricketers doesn’t carry the scars of past failures. If they win an ICC event, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them dominate for years.”

As the countdown to ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 continues, all eyes will be on AUS and their explosive all-rounder Maxwell. If Watson’s prediction comes true, AUS could be celebrating yet another ODI title by the tournament’s end.