FLOP XI OF ICC CHAMPIONS TROPHY 2025

Phil Salt entered the tournament as England's explosive opening batter, but his aggressive approach backfired. Across three innings, Salt managed to score just 30 runs in 3 innings, failing to provide his side By ct contributor with the fiery starts...

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 delivered thrilling moments, outstanding performances, and unforgettable victories. However, while some players rose to the occasion, others failed to make an impact despite high expectations. From experienced campaigners to rising stars, several cricketers endured a tough time in this edition of the tournament. Inconsistent performances, lack of form, and missed opportunities plagued their campaigns, leaving their teams in difficult positions. As the saying goes, form is temporary, and even the best players can experience a rough patch on the big stage.

While cricket often celebrates heroes, reflecting on those who couldn't deliver when it mattered most is equally important. This 'Flop XI' highlights players who were unable to meet expectations during the Champions Trophy, shedding light on the tough realities of top-level cricket and the unpredictable nature of major tournaments. Here's a closer look at the players who endured a forgettable campaign.

1. PHIL SALT (ENGLAND – WICKETKEEPER)

Phil Salt entered the tournament as England’s explosive opening batter, but his aggressive approach backfired. Across three innings, Salt managed to score just 30 runs in 3 innings, failing to provide his side with the fiery starts they needed. His inability to adapt to challenging conditions proved costly for England, who faced an early exit.

2. RAHMANULLAH GURBAZ (AFGHANISTAN – WICKETKEEPER)

Afghanistan’s attacking wicketkeeper-batter, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, endured a nightmare tournament. With just 16 runs in 3 innings, Gurbaz struggled against both pace and spin. His aggressive mindset resulted in poor shot selections, leaving Afghanistan vulnerable at the top of the order.

3. HARRY BROOK (ENGLAND)