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After a disappointing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 campaign in Australia, the Indian cricket team is gearing up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2024-25. With limited ODI exposure in 2024—only three matches played—finalizing the squad for the marquee event poses significant challenges for the selectors.
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Jasprit Bumrah Fitness Concerns Loom Over Selection
One of the most pressing issues is the uncertain fitness of star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who is integral to India’s plans. If Bumrah is unavailable, the selectors may turn to veteran seamer Mohammed Shami to spearhead the bowling attack.
However, Shami’s return is not guaranteed. Having last represented India in the ODI World Cup 2023 final, he has since been sidelined by an ankle injury. Shami has been working on his fitness through domestic cricket, participating in the Ranji Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, and Vijay Hazare Trophy. Despite decent performances, including four wickets in his Ranji Trophy comeback and 11 wickets in nine Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy games, his readiness for international cricket remains under scrutiny.
Selectors Face Deadline Before England Series
India’s next ODI series—a three-match face-off against England at home in February—will come after the Champions Trophy squad submission deadline of January 12, as set by the ICC. This leaves selectors with a narrow window to finalize their plans. Reports suggest that the BCCI will announce squads for both the England series and Champions Trophy simultaneously, with minimal surprises expected in the ODI lineup.
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Kuldeep Yadav’s Race Against Time
India’s first-choice wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav is also under the fitness scanner following recent surgery. Reports indicate that Kuldeep is likely to regain full fitness by January 20, which could clear the path for his inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad and England series. Kuldeep’s stellar performances in the Asia Cup and ODI World Cup make him a priority pick if medically cleared.
If Kuldeep fails to recover in time, young leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi is expected to step in as his replacement.
India’s Strategy and Squad Composition
- Pace Attack: If Bumrah and Shami are both fit, they are likely to form the core of the pace attack, complemented by Mohammed Siraj and all-rounders like Hardik Pandya.
- Spin Department: Kuldeep Yadav leads the spin options, with Bishnoi or Washington Sundar as backups.
- Batting Core: While the batting lineup appears stable, form and fitness will be key factors. Established players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill are expected to feature prominently.
What’s Next for India?
The final squad for the Champions Trophy 2024-25 is anticipated to be announced in early January, just days before the ICC’s deadline. All eyes are on the fitness assessments of key players like Bumrah, Shami, and Kuldeep, whose availability could determine India’s chances in the tournament.
As the countdown to the Champions Trophy begins, the Men in Blue will look to regroup and bring their best game to the tournament, set to take place in Pakistan and the UAE. With a rich legacy in ICC events, India will aim to reclaim the title they last won in 2013.
