The cricketing world eagerly anticipates the return of the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, with India, the 2013 Champions Trophy victors, setting their sights on reclaiming the title. All of India’s matches will be held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Led by Rohit Sharma, India will aim to sort out the matter of their Champions Trophy 2017 final loss to Pakistan. Despite missing Jasprit Bumrah, the team welcomes back experienced bowler Mohammed Shami, adding depth to the squad.
The team’s recent home series against England, where they secured a clean sweep while experimenting with their lineup, provides a glimpse into their strategic approach. A strong batting core forms the foundation, featuring a consistent top-6 with Axar Patel providing flexibility as a floater.
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With Bumrah unavailable, the pace attack becomes crucial. Although Shami’s recent form against England was not up to the mark, Harshit Rana’s recent performance provides an alternative. India may likely opt for a balanced combination: 5 batters, 3 all-rounders, a specialist spinner, and two pacers, with Hardik Pandya playing a key role with the ball.
Here’s a potential best XI for India at the Champions Trophy:
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Shubman Gill (vc)
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Hardik Pandya
- Axar Patel
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Harshit Rana
- Mohammed Shami
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While Shami’s experience is valuable, the team may need to make a tough call. The team has the option to choose between Shami and Arshdeep Singh. Rahul’s consistency secures his place, while Hardik’s bowling in the powerplay and Rana’s effective middle-over bowling make them integral to the team’s strategy.