As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, cricket enthusiasts are eager to see how Team India will line up for their opening game against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai. Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has offered his insights, revealing his preferred playing XI for the high-stakes encounter.
Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh lead the bowling attack
Bangar emphasized the importance of having Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh in the playing XI if both are fit and available. He suggested Mohammed Shami as a backup seamer but not a starter for the opening game.
“You eliminate one of the fast bowlers. If Arshdeep and Bumrah are both available, then you can afford to leave out somebody like a Shami. So for me, Shami is not a starter,” Bangar shared during the Star Sports show Follow the Blues.
Ravindra Jadeja over Axar Patel; Rishabh Pant misses out
In his selection, Bangar chose Ravindra Jadeja over Axar Patel for the all-rounder’s role, citing Jadeja’s consistent performances and versatility. He also mentioned that Rishabh Pant might remain on the bench, with KL Rahul donning the gloves.
“Then one between Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel and one reserve wicketkeeper. So in this case, Rishabh Pant may be on the benches,” Bangar noted.
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Mohammed Shami’s role and fitness considerations
While Bangar excluded Shami from the starting XI for the opening game, he acknowledged the pacer’s significance for India’s campaign. Reflecting on Shami’s readiness, Bangar said, “He has gained fitness and is ready to bowl the number of overs required with high intensity.”
Bangar suggested that Shami could play a crucial role in subsequent matches, particularly against strong opponents like England.
“The more games he plays, the better he gets, because that’s what history suggests about Mohammed Shami,” he added.
Sanjay Bangar’s India Xi for Champions Trophy 2025 opener
Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh