Players we will miss in the next Champions Trophy
The 2017 Champions Trophy is the 8th edition of the tournament. While the next tournament is scheduled to happen in 2019, ICC is planning to introduce an ODI league the same year. As a result, the 2019 edition might get cancelled, making 2017 tournament the last Champions Trophy for many of our favorite players. Let us find out who these players might be.
India's lionhearted all-rounder
Yuvraj Singh made his debut in the 2000 ICC KnockOut Trophy and played a major role in India's win against South Africa in the semi-finals. Since then, he has been an important part of India's squad and was pivotal in India's win in 2011 World Cup. However, given the young emerging talent, this could be the last ICC tournament for him.
South African captain
One of the most destructive batsmen of this generation, AB De Villiers will be leading South Africa this year. With injuries troubling him over the last one year, the 33-year old South African has already given hints of his retirement after the 2019 World Cup. He has played 219 ODI matches for the Proteas, and has scored 9299 runs at an average of 54.38.
The last of Pakistan's trio
Shoaib Malik is all set to play in his sixth Champions Trophy for the men in green. After Misbah ul Haq and Younis Khan's retirement, Shoaib is the most experienced player in Pakistan's team. While Malik is still fit and plays only shorter formats of the game, he could hang his boots after the 2019 ICC World Cup to make a way for youngsters.
Sri Lanka's weapon in Champions Trophy?
Currently one of the best death bowlers, Lasith Malinga has been an integral part in the success of Sri Lanka since his debut in 2004. Given he is 33 years old and injury prone, this might be the last major ICC tournament for Malinga. He has played 191 ODIs for Sri Lanka and has picked up 291 wickets.
The winner of all the three ICC trophies
MS Dhoni has scripted India's win in all the ICC trophies; World T20 in 2007, World Cup in 2011 and Champions Trophy in 2013. However, his not-so-good form and sudden decision to give up the captaincy in ODIs and T20s, the 35-year old has reportedly sent a message to his fans that he does not have much cricket left in him.
