Top Indian Players To Skip England ODIs Before Champions Trophy 2025
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India’s cricket team is gearing up for a five-match T20I series and three ODIs against England, their last bilateral series before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. However, three of India’s most prominent players, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah, are set to miss the ODI leg. This development raises questions about India’s preparations for the upcoming mega event.
- India’s top three players, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah, will miss the England ODI series.
- The ODI series is crucial preparation for the Champions Trophy 2025.
- Kohli and Rohit have retired from T20Is, focusing on other formats.
Rohit, Virat, Bumrah to Sit Out England ODIs
Reports indicate that Jasprit Bumrah will skip the T20Is to manage his workload. Following that, all three players, including Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, will not participate in the ODIs. This decision is yet to be finalized by the BCCI Selection Committee.
Kohli and Rohit, who retired from T20Is after the T20 World Cup 2024, are now focusing on the Test and ODI formats. However, their absence from the England ODIs may limit opportunities for them to fine-tune their white-ball game before the Champions Trophy.
Importance of England ODIs for India’s Preparation
India’s last ODI series before the Champions Trophy offers a critical chance for players to adapt to match conditions. Kohli and Rohit, key players for India, are currently struggling to score consistently in Tests. Playing ODIs against England could have helped them regain form.
The Champions Trophy will require a shift from Test cricket to white-ball cricket, which can be challenging. Missing the ODI series means Kohli and Rohit will transition directly from one format to another, which may affect their readiness.
Champions Trophy 2025: Key Details
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 begins on February 19 and adopts a hybrid format. India’s matches and the semifinals will take place in Dubai, while other matches will be held in Pakistan.
India’s Group A Fixtures:
- February 20: India vs. Bangladesh
- February 23: India vs. Pakistan
- Additional games will feature New Zealand and other Group A opponents.
Group B Teams: Australia, Afghanistan, England, and South Africa.
India’s campaign kicks off with a clash against Bangladesh, followed by a high-stakes match against Pakistan, making early momentum critical.
Challenges of Missing Key ODIs
Not playing the England ODIs leaves a potential gap in preparations. The pitches in England differ from the subcontinent, making the series an ideal setting to adapt to overseas conditions. Additionally, fine-tuning partnerships in the middle order will be vital for India’s success in the Champions Trophy.
Selection Committee to Make Final Call
The BCCI Selection Committee will finalize the squads for the England series after assessing the players’ availability. Workload management and strategic planning seem to be driving the decision to rest key players.
Possible Scenarios:
- Resting Bumrah could ensure his fitness for the Champions Trophy.
- Giving younger players a chance in the England series may strengthen India’s bench.
Looking Ahead: India’s Road to Champions Trophy
India’s preparation hinges on a balance of experience and adaptability. While the decision to skip ODIs may help in workload management, it also limits the opportunity to refine skills against a quality side like England.
Key Focus Areas:
- Adaptation to white-ball cricket: Seamless transition from Test to ODI cricket.
- Batting form: Kohli and Rohit regaining their scoring rhythm.
- Bowling combinations: Testing options in Bumrah’s absence.
India will need all players at their best to face formidable opponents like Pakistan, New Zealand, and other top teams in the Champions Trophy.