Former New Zealand cricketer Tim Southee has stirred controversy with his bold prediction for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to begin on February 19 in Pakistan.

Former New Zealand pacer Tim Southee believes his former teammate Kane Williamson and Australia's devastating batsman Travis Head will be the top two batsmen in the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy. The mega event is scheduled to begin on February 19 and the opening match will be played between Pakistan and New Zealand in Karachi.

Southee highlighted Williamson's adaptability to all conditions, calling him a player with a "phenomenal daily record". The New Zealand captain, known for his calm and composed batting, has amassed 6,810 runs in 165 ODIs at an average of 48.64 with 13 centuries and 45 fifties. His previous performances in Champions Trophy tournaments further support his position as he has scored 345 runs in just six innings at an average of 69.00, including a century and three fifties.

“I think wickets would be pretty good in Pakistan. Kane Williamson would be up there. Just think of its ability to adapt to different conditions. We've seen his experience in different conditions, his success in different conditions and he's a guy who has a phenomenal one-day record," Southee said.

The former Black Caps pacer also named Travis Head a strong contender for the top run-scorer title and praised his aggressive approach. Head, who played a crucial role in Australia's 2023 ODI World Cup victory, has scored 2,645 runs in 69 ODIs at an average of 44.08, with a strike rate of over 104. His six centuries demonstrate his ability to dominate opposition attacks.

“Maybe Travis Head too, I think he’s a dangerous player. He was a standout performer in the last edition of the ODI World Cup. I think he will like the wickets in Pakistan. Australia has always been strong in world affairs in the past and I am sure it will be there towards the end this time too,” Southee added.