India’s cricket team, led by Rohit Sharma, kicks off the Champions Trophy 2025 against Bangladesh in Dubai. Under pressure due to recent poor performances, the team selection has sparked debate, notably omitting in-form Yashasvi Jaiswal in favor of five spinners. Rohit and Shubman Gill are set to open, with Virat Kohli at No. 3. Shreyas Iyer is likely to bat at No. 4, and KL Rahul has been chosen over Rishabh Pant as wicketkeeper. The all-rounder lineup includes Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja, with Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh spearheading the pace attack.
India Predicted XI vs Bangladesh, Champions Trophy 2025© AFP
The Indian cricket team, led by Rohit Sharma, kicks off its Champions Trophy 2025 journey with a high-stakes match against Bangladesh in Dubai on Thursday. After a series of disappointing results in recent months, there is mounting pressure on Rohit and head coach Gautam Gambhir as they enter the tournament. Additionally, there’s been much discussion surrounding the team selection, particularly with India’s decision to field five spinners while omitting in-form youngster Yashasvi Jaiswal. Queries have also arisen regarding BCCI’s choice of Shubman Gill as Rohit’s deputy in this competition.
Rohit and Gill are anticipated to open the innings for India in the matchup against Bangladesh, with star batter Virat Kohli occupying his favored No. 3 position. Both Virat and Rohit have faced considerable criticism due to their recent poor form, making them key players to watch as they aim to rediscover their rhythm.
Shreyas Iyer, who has been on a remarkable run in domestic cricket, is likely to bat at No. 4, while KL Rahul is preferred over Rishabh Pant for the wicketkeeper role. The selection of two star players for this position has sparked significant debate. However, Rahul’s more reliable batting capability suggests he will feature in the game against Bangladesh over Pant.
As for the all-rounders, India is set to field Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja—three prominent figures anticipated to bolster a star-studded lower middle order.
In the bowling lineup, Kuldeep Yadav is expected to be the third spinner, supported by pace specialists Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh.
India Predicted XI against Bangladesh, Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh.
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