India's squad for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy has been unveiled, marking a significant moment for cricket enthusiasts and the team's supporters. The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, has made some bold choices in the lineup, aiming to blend experience with youthful exuberance to tackle the prestigious tournament set to commence on February 19.
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| Image Credits: Hindustan Times |
Leading the team, Rohit Sharma returns as captain, with his leadership and batting prowess at the forefront. Alongside him, the batting order is fortified by the likes of Virat Kohli, whose consistency is legendary, and Shubman Gill, who has been named vice-captain, reflecting his growth and potential as a leader.
The inclusion of Yashasvi Jaiswal marks a significant moment, offering him a maiden ODI call-up, and showcasing the selectors' faith in his aggressive style and recent performances. India's middle-order will have the same look as the ODI World Cup 2023 with the likes of Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul along with allrounders Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel.
In the pace bowling department, Jasprit Bumrah's inclusion despite recent back concerns is a testament to his importance in the squad. However, there's a notable shift with Mohammed Siraj being dropped, making way for a fresher approach in the bowling lineup. Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Shami bolster the pace attack, bringing diversity and depth.
The spin department remains strong with the trio of Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav, each bringing their unique skills to the table, from Jadeja's all-round capabilities to Kuldeep's wrist spin wizardry. Hardik Pandya's role as an all-rounder adds balance to the team, providing both batting depth and bowling options.
The announcement has sparked conversations across cricket forums and social media, with a particular focus on Gill's vice-captaincy and the strategic exclusion of Siraj. This squad composition reflects a strategy not just of winning but of building for the future, with an eye on the evolution of the team post-tournament.
India's campaign begins against Bangladesh in Dubai, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling journey in the Champions Trophy. Notably, this same Indian squad will also feature in the upcoming three-match ODI series against England, providing a perfect opportunity to fine-tune strategies and player form ahead of the Champions Trophy.
This continuity in selection underscores the selectors' confidence in the team's composition for both the series against the strong England line-up and the tournament.
India's Squad for Champions Trophy and England ODIs:
Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill (vc), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja
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