Champions Trophy 2025: X-Factor players of each team

6. Steve Smith (Australia)

With Pat Cummins likely to miss the Champions Trophy 2025, Steve Smith is set to lead Australia, continuing his captaincy stint after guiding the team against Sri Lanka. Smith’s recent form has been nothing but exceptional, hundreds in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a BBL ton, and over 270 runs in just two Test innings against Sri Lanka.

His adaptability makes him a vital asset for the side coming into this competition. Smith excels under pressure, as seen in his past performances in the ICC finals. If he continues his form, he could be Australia’s biggest X-factor in their hunt for Champions Trophy glory. The right-hander led the Aussies in the 2017 edition of the tournament and scored 86 runs in three games, including a fifty against England.

5. Jos Buttler (England)

Jos Buttler will be England’s most crucial player in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, both as a captain and a batter. England’s recent struggles in ICC tournaments will be an added pressure on Buttler to turn things around. His form has been impressive, especially in the India series, where he has done well while others failed. However, England's batting struggles have been a major concern.

Notably, this will be Buttler’s third Champions Trophy appearance for the Three Lions. He scored only 15 runs during the 2013 edition and continued the dismal run in 2017 as well, where he accumulated just 94 runs. But this time, he carries the responsibility of leading from the front. With England suffering multiple defeats in ODIs since their disastrous 2023 World Cup campaign, Buttler's leadership and batting will be key to their success in 2025.

Also Check- Champions Trophy 2025: 3 players who can replace Pat Cummins as captain in Australia Squad