The anticipation surrounding the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is growing, and former Indian coach Sanjay Bangar has weighed in with his selection for India’s playing XI. In an exclusive conversation with Star Sports, Bangar revealed a few surprising choices, most notably leaving out pacer Mohammed Shami and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant from his starting lineup. The team selection debate has sparked conversations, especially with key injuries impacting the lineup ahead of the England series.
India’s Playing XI for Champions Trophy 2025: Key Decisions by Sanjay Bangar
In a recent appearance, Sanjay Bangar shared his preferred starting XI for the prestigious ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The former India batting coach emphasized several key selection decisions that reflect both the team’s current form and fitness challenges. Here’s a breakdown of Bangar’s picks:
Exclusion of Mohammed Shami: No Room for the Veteran Pacer
Despite Mohammed Shami regaining fitness after a long recovery period following the 2023 ODI World Cup injury, Sanjay Bangar does not see the 34-year-old pacer in his starting XI for the Champions Trophy. Bangar suggested that with the return of pacers like Arshdeep Singh and potentially Jasprit Bumrah, Shami would not be the first-choice option.
Bangar stated, “If Arshdeep and Bumrah are both available, you can afford to leave out somebody like Shami. So, for me, Shami is not a starter.” This comment comes as India’s pace attack faces uncertainty with Bumrah’s ongoing back issues, which may see him sidelined for the England ODI series. Nevertheless, Bumrah is expected to be fit and available for the Champions Trophy group stage.
Jasprit Bumrah’s Injury Concerns: Will He Be Fit for the Champions Trophy?
Bumrah’s absence due to back spasms has raised concerns within the Indian camp. Currently resting under medical advice, Bumrah’s potential return to the playing XI could provide much-needed firepower to India’s pace attack during the Champions Trophy. However, his participation in the England series remains uncertain, with a possible comeback in time for the Champions Trophy group stage.
Rishabh Pant Left Out: KL Rahul Takes the Lead
Another noteworthy decision made by Bangar is the exclusion of Rishabh Pant, who has been a regular fixture in India’s limited-overs side. Despite Pant’s inclusion in the 15-man squad for both the England series and Champions Trophy, Bangar opted to prefer KL Rahul as the primary wicketkeeper.
Bangar highlighted, “Then one between Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel and one reserve wicketkeeper. So in this case, Rishabh Pant may be on the benches.” This statement suggests that, despite his exceptional abilities, Pant could find himself warming the benches as India looks to prioritize experience and stability with Rahul behind the stumps.
Axar Patel vs. Ravindra Jadeja: A Tough Call for Rohit Sharma
One of the most intriguing selection dilemmas revolves around the inclusion of either Ravindra Jadeja or Axar Patel in the playing XI. Both players have been in solid form, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. Bangar noted that India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, would need to make a crucial decision between the two all-rounders.
With Washington Sundar likely to serve as the backup or additional spinner in the side, choosing between Jadeja’s seasoned experience and Axar’s consistent performances in recent times could be key to India’s balance. The presence of these spinning all-rounders adds depth to the squad, giving India greater flexibility in terms of team composition.
What Does This Mean for India’s Lineup at the ICC Champions Trophy?
Sanjay Bangar’s selection offers a glimpse into the team dynamics ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. While injuries to key players like Bumrah pose challenges, India’s squad depth provides ample options. The potential sidelining of Rishabh Pant and Mohammed Shami highlights the competition within the team, with several players vying for limited spots in the starting XI.
As the tournament draws nearer, India’s selectors and coaching staff will continue to monitor player fitness and form, making final adjustments to ensure they field their strongest lineup for the Champions Trophy.
Conclusion: Can India Shine in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy?
With Sanjay Bangar’s predictions stirring up conversations around India’s selection strategy, one thing remains clear: the road to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be shaped by both player form and fitness. The exclusion of Mohammed Shami and Rishabh Pant from Bangar’s playing XI is a reflection of India’s growing depth in both the bowling and batting departments. Whether these choices will be validated by the final team selection is yet to be seen, but one thing is certain: India will enter the tournament with a strong, balanced squad.
As fans eagerly await the action to unfold, the Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be an exciting chapter in Indian cricket, with tough selection calls and fierce competition driving the team forward.
