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As the Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, the pressure is mounting on the Indian cricket team to fine-tune their strategy and address key weaknesses. The tournament, likely to be held in Pakistan, is still months away, but India’s recent performance against Sri Lanka has raised several concerns. After a disappointing 2-0 loss in the three-match ODI series, it’s clear that India needs to make some bold decisions before the marquee event.
With a crucial three-match ODI series against England on the horizon, which will serve as India’s final preparation for the Champions Trophy, Rohit Sharma and the team management have to consider some significant changes. Here are three bold calls that could potentially resolve India’s grey areas in ODI cricket.
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1. Give Yashasvi Jaiswal More Game Time
Since Shikhar Dhawan’s departure from India’s white-ball setup, Shubman Gill has been the preferred opening partner for Rohit Sharma. However, Gill’s recent form in the Sri Lanka series was far from convincing. Scoring just 57 runs across three innings at an average of 19, Gill’s struggles against quality bowling on challenging pitches have come under scrutiny.
Given the importance of the Champions Trophy, India needs a reliable backup opener. Yashasvi Jaiswal is currently the front-runner for this role, but it’s crucial that he gets adequate game time before the tournament. Instead of just traveling with the squad, Jaiswal should be rotated into the playing XI to ensure he is ready if called upon during the tournament.
2. Increase Opportunities for Riyan Parag and Washington Sundar
For years, India struggled to find a middle-order batter who could also contribute with a few overs. The absence of Kedar Jadhav left a void that India is still trying to fill. However, Riyan Parag has recently emerged as a promising option, particularly with his impressive ODI debut where he claimed a hat-trick.
Washington Sundar has also been making strides, especially with his performances in July, where he was even nominated for Player of the Month. These two players could be crucial on spin-friendly pitches, especially alongside Axar Patel. India should ensure that Parag and Sundar are given more opportunities to solidify their roles as key contributors with both bat and ball.
3. Find a Reliable Backup for Mohammed Siraj
India’s bowling attack has often looked vulnerable in Jasprit Bumrah’s absence, and the recent series against Sri Lanka was no exception. Mohammed Siraj, who was expected to step up, struggled, taking only three wickets at an economy of 6.28. His inability to consistently strike could be a liability in the Champions Trophy.
Given these concerns, it is imperative that India identifies a reliable backup pacer who can support Bumrah in taking wickets. Whether it’s bringing in a fresh face or giving more opportunities to those waiting in the wings, this is a decision that cannot be delayed.
As Rohit Sharma and the team prepare for the final stretch before the Champions Trophy, these three calls could be the difference between success and failure. With the right strategies and player rotations, India can address its weaknesses and enter the tournament with a balanced and confident squad.
