India’s Likely Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit Sharma to Captain, No Jasprit Bumrah?
The wait for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has just begun, and the Indian cricket fans have already started making a lot of predictions regarding the selection of the squad. As this tournament is scheduled to take place in Pakistan, India will make sure to bring home the highly sought-after title. But a buzz has emerged regarding a dramatic change in the squad: the exclusion of Jasprit Bumrah and leadership by Rohit Sharma.
No Jasprit Bumrah? Fitness Over Form
Jasprit Bumrah, India’s ace pacer, has been a vital cog in the team over the past few years. But injuries have seen him on the sidelines more often than not. The management might be inclined to play safe with long-term fitness rather than short-term participation, which might mean Bumrah sitting out of the Champions Trophy 2025. If that happens, the pace attack could revolve around Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, and emerging talents like Mukesh Kumar and Umran Malik.
Rohit Sharma to Continue as Captain?
Rohit Sharma has been India’s captain across all formats since 2021. Despite some ups and downs, his experience of leadership will be crucial in a high-pressure tournament like the Champions Trophy. The calm demeanor and the tactical acumen of Rohit Sharma will make him probably the best to lead the team. However, if the selectors decide upon a change, Hardik Pandya, who successfully led in the IPL and was T20I captain, could be the probable choice.
Key Players Likely to Feature
- Top Order: Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli are likely to play a vital role in India’s batting lineup. Both are in sublime form, and they have the experience of handling pressure situations.
- Middle Order: KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer, both suffering from injuries, may make a middle order comprising a mix of experience and youth. Suryakumar Yadav, who has done well in ODIs of late, is also a likely candidate to make the cut.
- All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya are likely to retain their spots. Both offer the perfect balance with their contributions in all departments of the game.
- Spin Department: Kuldeep Yadav has been a revelation in the last couple of years, and his partnership with Jadeja will form the crux of India’s spin attack.
Young Guns to Watch Out For
The Champions Trophy can also see new stars emerging. Players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Tilak Varma can make their cut, adding much-needed depth and energy to the team.
India’s Future
While the team is yet to be announced, the selectors would have to make a fine balance between experience and youth. Given that Pakistan will be hosting the tournament, the Indian players would have to acclimatize themselves to the local conditions very quickly. Champions Trophy 2025 is the golden opportunity for Team India to consolidate their dominance on the world stage.
Conclusion
It may be a loss without Jasprit Bumrah, but India’s squad depth ensures that they remain one of the strong contenders. The leadership of Rohit Sharma with a mix of seasoned campaigners and rising stars might make this a memorable campaign. Fans are eagerly awaiting the official squad announcement and the exciting cricketing battles that lie ahead.
