The wait is over. The Champions Trophy is underway in Pakistan with the great and the good of world cricket competing for global silverware.
This time round, the tournament winners could come from anywhere.
The tournament’s format lends itself to upsets, with two groups of four providing four semi-finalists. In contrast to the 50 Over World Cup, it is short, sharp and full of jeopardy.
The usual big hitters are here with mixture of preparations. India are looking strong having seen off England at home, and will play their matches in Dubai with a lot of key players in fine touch.
England on the other hand come in to the tournament a little bruised, with injuries and heavy defeats ending any honeymoon period for the new white ball coach Brendon McCullum. In Harry Brook they have a batter who loves batting in Pakistan; if he can replicate his Test form in the country England will be in a strong position.
Tournament hosts Pakistan - so often the unpredictable team in a global event - come into things looking serene. A settled batting line-up with a firm plan, and captain Mohammad Rizwan in magnificent form, the team in green are well placed to go deep into the tournament.
Australia - so often pre-tournament favourites - come into the event as a bit of an unknown. Injuries to key bowlers like Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins rob the side of quality and experience. A lot of responsibility will come to Travis Head and Steve Smith to guide their team through the tournament.
South Africa were within touching distance of their first major trophy in last year's T20 World Cup. They look in a strong place to compete for glory this time around, with a powerhouse batting line-up and skilled bowling attack led by the incomparable Kagiso Rabada.
Bangladesh's last ODI series ended in a 3-0 defeat to West Indies, so hopes coming in might not be particularly high. However, with the players at their disposal they are capable of not just springing a surprise but reaching the latter stages.
After a poor couple of tournaments, New Zealand will be keen to reassert themselves in the final reckoning. As ever, Kane Williamson will be the key alongside Daryl Mitchell and Rachin Ravindra with the bat.
Last but not least we have Afghanistan. They have made waves in international tournaments with landmark victories over England and New Zealand - and famously made the semi-finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup. No longer a cricketing minnow, Afghanistan are ready to take their place at the top table again - can they do it over a longer format?
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