India has named a star-studded squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with the notable return of right-arm seamer Mohammed Shami. After more than a year away from the ODI team, Shami’s inclusion is a significant boost for India’s pace attack. The announcement was made by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday, ahead of the tournament, which is scheduled to begin on February 19 in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Shami’s inclusion comes after a strong return to competitive cricket. The pacer last featured in India’s historic 2023 ODI World Cup final. Following ankle surgery and a series of setbacks, Shami made his comeback playing for Bengal in a Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh in November. His recent form and experience have earned him a spot in both the Champions Trophy squad and the T20I series against England.
Rohit Sharma will lead the Indian squad in the Champions Trophy, with Shubman Gill serving as his deputy. The batting lineup features some of India’s top players, including Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and Shreyas Iyer. Additionally, all-rounders like Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar will provide depth to both the batting and bowling units.
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The spin department is set to be anchored by Kuldeep Yadav, who will be supported by Jadeja, Axar, and Sundar. Meanwhile, the fast-bowling attack will see Shami join Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh in a formidable trio.
Notably absent from the squad are wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson and pacer Mohammed Siraj. Siraj’s exclusion has raised eyebrows, given his consistent performances in recent months, but the team management appears to be focusing on a blend of experience and fresh talent for the Champions Trophy.
The ICC Champions Trophy will run from February 19 to March 9, with matches taking place across Pakistan and Dubai. India will face Bangladesh in their opening game on February 20, followed by the much-anticipated clash with arch-rivals Pakistan on February 23. The group stage will conclude with India’s final league match against New Zealand on March 2. India will play all their matches in Dubai.
The tournament will feature two groups. Group A will consist of hosts Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, while Group B will feature World Cup 2023 champions Australia, alongside Afghanistan, England, and South Africa.
Before the Champions Trophy, India will also play a three-match ODI series against England, starting on February 6. The squad for this series mirrors that of the Champions Trophy, with one change: Harshit Rana replaces Jasprit Bumrah. Additionally, India will engage in a five-match T20I series against England, starting on January 22, with the first match scheduled in Kolkata.
The announcement of the squad and the packed schedule set the stage for a thrilling year of cricket as India prepares for the Champions Trophy, with high expectations for both individual performances and team success.
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