Champions Trophy 2025: India’s Squad Announced, Jaiswal Debuts
India has unveiled their 15-man squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, featuring key inclusions like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and the young talent Yashasvi Jaiswal. The squad will be led by Rohit Sharma, with Shubman Gill as his deputy, and features a strong mix of experienced players and exciting new additions.
India’s Squad for the Champions Trophy 2025
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Shubman Gill (vc)
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Rishabh Pant (wk)
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Axar Patel
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Washington Sundar
- Jasprit Bumrah*
- Mohammed Shami
- Arshdeep Singh
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
*Bumrah’s inclusion is subject to fitness clearance.
Key Highlights from India’s Squad Announcement
Jasprit Bumrah’s Return
Jasprit Bumrah has been included in the squad, but his selection hinges on his recovery from a back injury. Bumrah’s ability to lead India’s pace attack will be critical, especially in the high-pressure games against Pakistan and New Zealand. However, Harshit Rana will replace Bumrah in the upcoming three-match ODI series against England starting February 6, as a preparatory series for the Champions Trophy.
Mohammed Shami’s Comeback
Mohammed Shami, India’s leading wicket-taker from the 2023 ODI World Cup, has returned to the team after recovering from surgery on his Achilles tendon. His experience and ability to deliver under pressure make him a vital cog in India’s three-man pace attack, which also includes Arshdeep Singh. Surprisingly, Mohammed Siraj has been left out, raising eyebrows about India’s pace strategy.
Spin and All-Rounder Departments Well-Stocked
India boasts a versatile spin department with Kuldeep Yadav returning from a hernia surgery. Kuldeep, alongside Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, brings a mix of wicket-taking ability and batting depth. Ravindra Jadeja, back in ODIs after over a year, strengthens the all-rounder group with his left-arm spin and batting prowess. The inclusion of Hardik Pandya as the pace-bowling all-rounder ensures India has enough balance in their squad.
Yashasvi Jaiswal: The Surprise Inclusion
The selection of Yashasvi Jaiswal is one of the most exciting aspects of the squad. Jaiswal, who is yet to make his ODI debut, offers a fresh left-handed option at the top of the order. With an average of 54 in List A cricket and a double-century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Jaiswal has impressed selectors with his consistency. His inclusion gives India’s batting lineup a dynamic edge, with Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma forming the core.
Keeper-Bat Options: KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant
India continues to trust KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as their wicket-keeping options. Rahul, who delivered stellar performances during the 2023 World Cup, will likely be the first-choice keeper, while Pant’s explosive batting adds an X-factor in the middle order.
Group Stage and Key Matches
India is placed in Group A, alongside Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. They begin their Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh on February 20, 2025, at the Dubai International Stadium. This will be preceded by a three-match ODI series against England, to be held in Nagpur (Feb 6), Cuttack (Feb 9), and Ahmedabad (Feb 12), as a crucial warm-up for the marquee event.
Analysis: Strengths and Concerns
Strengths:
- Experienced Leadership: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli bring unmatched experience and calm under pressure.
- Balanced Squad: The presence of multiple all-rounders like Hardik Pandya, Jadeja, and Sundar provides flexibility.
- Pace Attack: If Bumrah regains full fitness, the pace trio of Bumrah, Shami, and Arshdeep can dominate any batting lineup.
Concerns:
- Injury-Dependent Players: The fitness of key players like Bumrah and Pandya remains a critical factor.
- Unproven Newcomers: Jaiswal’s lack of ODI experience could be a risk in high-stakes games.
- Spin Options: While the spin department looks strong on paper, Kuldeep’s recent injuries could be a concern.
India’s Potential Playing XI for Champions Trophy 2025
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Shubman Gill (vc)
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Axar Patel
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Shami
India’s Road to Glory in Champions Trophy 2025
The Indian squad for Champions Trophy 2025 is a blend of experience and youth, with key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Bumrah forming the backbone of the team. With the inclusion of exciting talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal and proven all-rounders like Hardik Pandya, India looks well-prepared to challenge for the trophy. However, fitness and form will be decisive factors as they gear up for their opening game on February 20 against Bangladesh.
Can India clinch their third ICC Champions Trophy title? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
For the latest updates on the Champions Trophy 2025, stay tuned to our website.
