India's Champions Trophy Squad: Rohit Sharma To Lead, Big Names in Doubt

India's preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 are underway, with Rohit Sharma set to lead the team in Dubai. However, the squad announcement this weekend is likely to spark debates, as selectors deliberate on the inclusion of senior players like KL Rahul, Mohammed Shami, and Ravindra Jadeja.

Key Highlights:

1. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli at the Core:

   • Despite recent dips in form, Sharma and Kohli remain the backbone of India's batting lineup.

2. KL Rahul's Uncertain Spot:

   • Rahul's inconsistent performances in recent ODIs, including a sedate half-century against Australia in the World Cup, have put his selection in doubt.
   • If Rishabh Pant is the primary wicketkeeper, Rahul’s role as a backup becomes questionable.

3. Jadeja vs. Axar Patel:

   • Ravindra Jadeja's struggles in white-ball cricket have raised concerns, with Axar Patel emerging as a more effective option.
   • Washington Sundar is also expected to join as an off-spinning all-rounder.

4. Bowling Department:

   • Mohammed Shami's fitness and communication with the team management have been under scrutiny, although his recent domestic performances provide hope.
   • Jasprit Bumrah’s back spasms could pave the way for Shami’s inclusion as a key pacer.
   • Kuldeep Yadav’s fitness remains uncertain, with Ravi Bishnoi or Varun Chakravarthy as potential replacements.

5. Promising Newcomers:

   • Yashasvi Jaiswal is a strong contender to bolster the top order with his left-handed batting.
   • Among reserves, Rinku Singh and Tilak Varma are being considered as backup specialist batters.

Potential Squad:

• Batsmen: Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli.
• Wicketkeepers: Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul.
• All-Rounders: Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar.
• Spinners: Kuldeep Yadav (if fit), Ravi Bishnoi/Varun Chakravarthy.
• Pacers: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami/Avesh Khan.
• Reserves: Rinku Singh/Tilak Varma.

India’s first match in the tournament is against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai. With the team refusing to travel to original hosts Pakistan due to security concerns, all matches will be played at neutral venues. The final squad is expected to be a mix of experience and fresh talent, aiming for a balanced and competitive side.

The Champions Trophy offers India a crucial chance to showcase its ODI strength, but fitness and form will play a significant role in the selectors' final decisions.