ICC Champions Trophy 2025: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled Team India’s 15 player squad for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, set to be held in Dubai. The squad announcement, led by Chairman of Selectors Ajit Agarkar and captain Rohit Sharma, revealed some surprising inclusions and omissions, sparking debates across the cricketing world.
With Rohit Sharma at the helm and Shubman Gill as vice captain, India aims to secure its third Champions Trophy title after triumphs in 2002 and 2013. But the big talking points? The return of an “injured” Jasprit Bumrah, the shocking omission of Mohammed Siraj, and the continued exclusion of Sanju Samson.
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ICC Champions Trophy 2025 : India’s Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 – Rohit Sharma to Lead, Bumrah In Despite Injuries, Samson & Siraj Miss Out
India’s Full Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Shubman Gill (VC)
- Virat Kohli
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Rishabh Pant (wk)
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Axar Patel
- Washington Sundar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Shami
- Arshdeep Singh
Key Talking Points from the Squad Announcement
1. Rohit Sharma to Captain, Gill Named Deputy
With his vast experience and success as captain in multiple ICC tournaments, Rohit Sharma was the natural choice to lead the team. Rising star Shubman Gill, fresh off a stellar 2024, has been appointed vice captain.
2. Jasprit Bumrah Makes the Cut Despite Fitness Woes
The inclusion of Jasprit Bumrah, despite ongoing back injury concerns, has raised eyebrows. According to Agarkar, Bumrah will miss the upcoming England ODI series, with Harshit Rana stepping in as his replacement. However, the medical staff is optimistic about Bumrah’s fitness for the Champions Trophy.
- Agarkar confirmed: “Bumrah is currently under observation, and his fitness status will be reassessed in early February.”
3. No Place for Mohammed Siraj
Mohammed Siraj, once a key figure in India’s pace attack, has been left out of the squad. The decision stems from concerns over his recent dip in form and the need to manage his workload. Instead, Arshdeep Singh, the left-arm pacer, gets the nod to bolster India’s bowling arsenal.
4. Samson Excluded Again
Sanju Samson, who has been on the fringes of India’s ODI setup, has once again been left out. With KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant locked in as the two wicketkeepers, Samson’s exclusion doesn’t come as a shock. However, his absence from even the reserves list has sparked speculation about his place in India’s future plans.
Balanced Squad with Spin-Friendly Dubai in Mind
Dubai’s spin friendly pitches have influenced the selectors decision to include four spinners:
- Axar Patel
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Washington Sundar
- Kuldeep Yadav
These players, along with all rounder Hardik Pandya, form a balanced squad that combines spin dominance with a formidable pace attack led by Bumrah and Shami.
Fixtures for the Group Stage
India is placed in a competitive group and will face the following fixtures:
- February 20: India vs Bangladesh, Dubai
- February 23: India vs Pakistan, Dubai
- March 2: India vs New Zealand, Dubai
Aiming for a Third Champions Trophy Title
India has a storied history in the Champions Trophy, having lifted the trophy in 2002 (shared with Sri Lanka) and 2013 (defeating England). The 2025 squad reflects a blend of youth and experience, with the selectors banking on big names like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and emerging stars like Yashasvi Jaiswal to deliver.
Fan Reactions: Mixed Opinions on Bumrah and Samson
The squad announcement has triggered heated discussions among fans and analysts:
- Many are questioning the decision to include Bumrah while he’s still recovering from injury.
- Sanju Samson’s exclusion has left his fans disappointed yet again.
- Siraj’s omission has also raised eyebrows, with some arguing that his experience would have been valuable.
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy represents a crucial opportunity for India to reclaim its dominance in ICC tournaments. While the squad has its share of surprises, the balance of experience and adaptability to Dubai’s conditions could prove key.
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