Hardik Pandya and Shaheen Afridi clash in epic Champions Trophy 2025 heist-themed promo

The emotion for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has reached new heights with the release of an electrifying teaser video from the International Cricket Council (ICC). This eight-team tournament, which marks its return to the cricket calendar after an eight-year hiatus since 2017, promises to be quite the spectacle, and the teaser has only amplified the anticipation. The video, which has gone viral on various social media platforms, features prominent players from India and Pakistan, showcasing the intense Indo-Pak rivalry in a unique and engaging narrative.

Hardik Pandya, Shaheen Afridi battle for a trophy steal

Conceptualized as a high-stakes museum heist, the teaser opens with that of Pakistan Shaheen Afridi i Shadab Khan sneak into a highly secure building to steal the coveted Champions Trophy. The scene is set with high-tech security systems, laser beams and an air of mystery, setting the stage for an action-packed encounter.

Just when Afridi and Shadab are about to walk away with the trophy, Hardik Pandyarepresenting India, enters the scene with his own set of ambitions. In a cinematic twist, Pandya meets Afridi hanging upside down from the ceiling, leading to a humorous yet competitive exchange between the two cricket stars. The rivalry unfolds dramatically in front of the trophy, which is kept in a laser-protected room, heightening the tension and excitement of the moment.

READ also: BCCI responds to reports of Pakistan’s name being removed from India’s 2025 Champions Trophy jersey

Mohammad Nabi and Phil Salt join the action

Add to the chaos, that of Afghanistan Mohammad Nabi and that of England Phil Salt join the action, bringing your own flair to the heist scene. The teaser cleverly incorporates elements of fun and competition, with Pandya concluding the video by stating that he is enjoying the competition, a nod to the spirit of the game and the camaraderie between the players off the field.

Here is the video:

15 games, 8 teams, 1 champion. IT’S ALL ON THE LINE! 🏆

The action starts on February 19th ⏳#TrofeuChampions pic.twitter.com/SpVWtGfHNB

— ICC (@ICC) January 22, 2025

READ also: Pakistan’s Mohammad Asif predicts the four semi-finalists of Champions Trophy 2025