New Delhi, January 18 – The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled its much-anticipated 15-member squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Returning to the marquee event after an eight-year hiatus, India is set to embark on a challenging campaign, with seasoned captain Rohit Sharma leading the charge. The tournament will take place in a hybrid model, hosted jointly by Pakistan and Dubai, with all of India’s group-stage matches slated for Dubai.
A Blend of Experience and Youth
India’s squad for the tournament reflects a carefully crafted balance of seasoned veterans and rising stars. Rohit Sharma will captain the side, while Shubman Gill, who has showcased remarkable consistency in recent years, has been named vice-captain. The batting lineup also features the iconic Virat Kohli, whose experience in ICC events is expected to be pivotal.
India’s all-rounder department looks formidable, with Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel providing depth in both batting and bowling. Meanwhile, the bowling attack boasts a lethal mix of pace and spin, spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Kuldeep Yadav.
Among the youngsters, Yashasvi Jaiswal’s selection stands out. The southpaw has been rewarded for his stellar domestic and IPL performances. Rishabh Pant, returning to full fitness, will serve as the primary wicketkeeper and a key middle-order batter.
India’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Squad:
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Shubman Gill (vice-captain)
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul
- Hardik Pandya
- Axar Patel
- Washington Sundar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Shami
- Arshdeep Singh
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Rishabh Pant
- Ravindra Jadeja
India’s Journey in the Champions Trophy
The Champions Trophy holds a special place in Indian cricketing history. The Men in Blue last won the tournament in 2013 under MS Dhoni’s leadership, defeating England in a rain-affected final. However, India’s most recent appearance in the event in 2017 ended in disappointment, as they suffered a heavy defeat to arch-rivals Pakistan in the final at The Oval.
This year, India will begin their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by high-stakes matches against Pakistan and New Zealand in the group stage. With Pakistan being a co-host, the much-anticipated Indo-Pak clash will take center stage, further amplifying the excitement of the tournament.
High Hopes and Challenges Ahead
India enters the Champions Trophy 2025 as one of the favorites, having displayed commendable form in ICC tournaments and bilateral series over the past few years. Their semifinal appearance in the 2023 World Cup and recent dominance in limited-overs cricket have raised expectations for a strong showing.
Speaking about the squad, BCCI Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar remarked, “We have picked a team that we believe is versatile, experienced, and equipped to adapt to the conditions in Dubai. The blend of youth and experience gives us an edge, and we’re confident this squad can deliver under pressure.”
As India prepares for their group-stage opener, fans across the nation are rallying behind their team, hoping for a repeat of the glory days of 2013. With a mix of experienced heads and talented newcomers, the Men in Blue are poised to give their best shot at reclaiming the prestigious trophy.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be a spectacle, and India’s matches, especially the face-off with Pakistan, are sure to keep cricket enthusiasts on the edge of their
