The Indian cricket team selectors face a tough decision as they need to finalize the squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 by Tuesday, February 11. With concerns over Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness, the selection panel, led by Ajit Agarkar, must decide on the star bowler’s inclusion. If Bumrah is unavailable, Varun Chakravarthy is likely to be picked for the final 15-member squad.
Bumrah or Chakravarthy?
The ICC’s deadline for submitting the final squad is Tuesday, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and its selectors cannot make changes afterward unless there is an injury or unavoidable situation. Reports indicate that Bumrah’s selection is uncertain after he underwent scans for a back injury at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) last week. He has not played since the Sydney Test in January when he left the field on the final day.
On the other hand, Varun Chakravarthy has impressed with his performances in the England T20I series, earning the Player of the Series award. His skills have caught the selectors’ attention, leading to his inclusion in the ODI side. Chakravarthy made his ODI debut for India in Cuttack, finishing with figures of 54/1.
Chakravarthy is also useful with the bat and was one of the expensive players retained by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for $1.6 million (INR 140 million).
India’s Current Champions Trophy 2025 Squad
- Rohit Sharma (Captain)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul
- Hardik Pandya
- Axar Patel
- Washington Sundar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammad Shami
- Arshdeep Singh
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Rishabh Pant
- Ravindra Jadeja
Additional Information
Jasprit Bumrah has recently completed a five-week off-loading period and has started his rehabilitation at the NCA. The BCCI has put an iron curtain on information regarding his fitness, with only a few people aware of his current status. The selectors are closely monitoring his progress, and a final decision will be made soon.
Varun Chakravarthy, known for his mystery spin, has been a standout performer in domestic cricket and the IPL. His ability to bowl tight overs and take crucial wickets makes him a valuable asset for the team.
India’s squad for the Champions Trophy is well-rounded, with a mix of experienced players and young talents. The final squad will depend on Bumrah’s availability, but the current setup looks strong enough to challenge for the title.