India’s Squad Preparations for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is a highly anticipated event for Indian cricket fans. India’s preparation for the tournament, scheduled to begin on February 19, 2025, has sparked discussions about the squad’s composition. Let’s explore who is likely to make the final cut, who might miss out, and the players on the fringes.
India’s Core Players: The Backbone of the Squad
India’s core group remains largely unchanged since the 2023 Cricket World Cup. Established stars like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, and Kuldeep Yadav are virtually guaranteed spots in the squad.
- These players have consistently delivered in high-stakes matches.
- Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul, pivotal in the 2023 World Cup, are expected to retain their places.
- Rishabh Pant, who recently returned to the ODI setup, and Mohammed Shami, if fit, will also be strong contenders.
India’s core players form a well-rounded unit, combining experience and skill. Their performances will be crucial in the tournament.
All-Rounders: Adding Depth and Balance
All-rounders are critical to India’s strategy. The selectors are likely to choose versatile players who can contribute with both bat and ball.
- Axar Patel offers a multifaceted skill set, excelling in spin and lower-order batting.
- Washington Sundar, known for his utility in Tests and T20Is, is another strong contender.
- Backups like Shivam Dube and Nitish Kumar Reddy could be considered as substitutes for Hardik Pandya.
List of All-Rounder Options
- Confirmed: Axar Patel
- Probables: Washington Sundar, Shivam Dube
- Unlikely: Nitish Kumar Reddy
Openers: Reliable and Emerging Options
India’s opening duo is well-set with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill leading the charge. However, the selectors may include additional options for flexibility.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal, a promising talent, could be the third opener.
- Ishan Kishan brings the added advantage of being a backup wicketkeeper.
- Ruturaj Gaikwad is another name in consideration for the opening role.
Key Points
- Jaiswal’s adaptability across formats makes him a strong candidate.
- Kishan’s ability to bat in the top four adds depth to the lineup.
Middle Order: Strength in Depth
The middle order will likely feature a mix of experience and youthful energy.
- Sanju Samson, with his wicketkeeping skills, is a potential backup option.
- Rinku Singh and Tilak Varma have shown promise in domestic cricket.
- Emerging players like Dhruv Jurel and Riyan Parag are considered future prospects but may not make the cut this time.
Prominent Names in the Middle Order
- Certainties: Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul
- Probables: Sanju Samson, Rinku Singh
- Unlikely: Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag
Fast Bowlers: Ensuring Variety and Consistency
India’s pace attack is spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah, with strong support from Mohammed Siraj and possibly Mohammed Shami, subject to fitness.
- Left-arm pacers like Arshdeep Singh and Khaleel Ahmed offer variety.
- Avesh Khan and Yash Dayal are additional options to bolster the squad.
- Emerging players such as Harshit Rana and Mayank Yadav may be considered backups.
Fast Bowling Options
- Confirmed: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj
- Probables: Arshdeep Singh, Khaleel Ahmed
- Unlikely: Harshit Rana, Mayank Yadav
Challenges and Opportunities for the Squad
India’s preparation for the Champions Trophy faces some challenges:
- Limited ODI matches since the 2023 World Cup could hinder team cohesion.
- Injuries to key players like Mohammed Shami remain a concern.
- Experimenting with backups and fringe players is essential for long-term planning.
Despite these challenges, the depth and versatility in India’s squad present opportunities to excel.
India’s Squad Outlook
| Category | Confirmed | Probables | Unlikely |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Players | Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah | – | – |
| All-Rounders | Axar Patel | Washington Sundar, Shivam Dube | Nitish Kumar Reddy |
| Openers | Shubman Gill | Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ishan Kishan | Ruturaj Gaikwad |
| Middle Order | Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul | Sanju Samson, Rinku Singh | Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag |
| Fast Bowlers | Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah | Arshdeep Singh, Khaleel Ahmed | Harshit Rana, Mayank Yadav |
What Lies Ahead
India’s final preparation for the Champions Trophy includes a three-match series against England. With minimal changes expected, the selectors will rely on proven performers while keeping an eye on emerging talent.
The tournament promises exciting cricket, and India will aim to reclaim glory in this prestigious ICC event.