Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to Lead India’s Batting Core for Champions Trophy
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are set to remain integral to India’s batting lineup in the ODI squad. However, as the selectors convene this weekend to finalize the team for the Champions Trophy, discussions may arise regarding the inclusion of certain senior players. At least three experienced players face uncertain futures in the 50-over format.
Key Selection Debates
KL Rahul, Mohammed Shami, and Ravindra Jadeja
KL Rahul, Mohammed Shami, and Ravindra Jadeja’s spots in the squad are not guaranteed despite their participation in last year’s World Cup. Since then, India has played six ODIs, with Shami and Jadeja rested, while Rahul featured in bilateral series against South Africa and Sri Lanka. During the Sri Lanka series, Rahul was dropped midway after struggling in the middle order. His slow-paced half-century, consuming over 100 balls, was a significant factor in India’s loss to Australia on November 19, 2023.
Yashasvi Jaiswal: A Promising Contender
Yashasvi Jaiswal is considered a strong contender for the ODI squad, potentially bringing a left-handed option to the top four. However, if Rishabh Pant remains the first-choice wicketkeeper, Rahul’s role as a backup wicketkeeper or as a pure batter becomes uncertain.
The Competition
Among Rahul’s competitors, Ishan Kishan’s Vijay Hazare Trophy performance has been underwhelming, and Sanju Samson hasn’t been included in Kerala’s lineup after missing initial games. If coach Gautam Gambhir’s influence persists, Samson, a player he strongly supports, might still secure a place in the squad.
Venue and Schedule
India’s Champions Trophy campaign will take place in Dubai, starting with a match against Bangladesh on February 20. This comes after India declined to play in original host Pakistan due to security concerns.
Jadeja’s Form in White-Ball Cricket
Ravindra Jadeja’s recent performances in white-ball cricket have not matched his previous standards, with Axar Patel currently viewed as a more effective ODI option. Washington Sundar is likely to be included as an off-spinner, while Kuldeep Yadav’s fitness remains a concern. Although Kuldeep is nearing full fitness, he hasn’t played any Vijay Hazare Trophy games. If he is unavailable, either Ravi Bishnoi or Varun Chakravarthy could be selected.
Shami’s Fitness Status
Mohammed Shami’s communication with team management regarding his fitness has raised questions. Despite this, he has bowled eight overs in his last two Vijay Hazare Trophy matches. Should Jasprit Bumrah be unavailable due to back spasms, Shami’s experience will be crucial.
Hardik Pandya is expected to fulfill the seam-bowling all-rounder role, while Nitish Reddy might be considered as an alternative. For reserve specialist batters, the choice could narrow down to Rinku Singh or Tilak Varma.
Probable Squad India Cricket team
- Rohit Sharma (captain)
- Shubman Gill
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Virat Kohli
- Rishabh Pant
- Hardik Pandya
- Axar Patel
- Ravi Bishnoi
- Washington Sundar
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
- Arshdeep Singh
- Avesh Khan/Mohammed Shami
- KL Rahul
- Rinku Singh/Tilak Varma
Stay tuned for updates as the selectors finalize the squad for the highly anticipated Champions Trophy!
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