India’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been announced. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar revealed the team in a press conference on Saturday, with Captain Rohit Sharma also present. The squad includes key players like Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya, along with star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. However, Bumrah’s participation depends on his fitness. The tournament, hosted by Pakistan, will begin on February 19 and will be played in the ODI format. Here are 5 key things to know about India’s Champions Trophy squad.
1. Trust Expressed in Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer may not currently feature in India’s Test or T20 teams, but he remains a key player in ODIs. Recently, he scored two centuries in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, proving his form in domestic cricket after being dropped from the team. Although Shreyas struggled in the ODI series against Sri Lanka in August, he performed brilliantly in the 2023 ODI World Cup. He scored 530 runs in 11 matches with an impressive average of 66.25. Indian fans will again look to him for a stellar performance in this ICC tournament.
2. Shami and Kuldeep Return Fully Fit
Experienced fast bowler Mohammed Shami is back in the ODI setup. Shami, who last played in the 2023 ODI World Cup, was recently selected for the T20 series against England after overcoming a long heel injury. Chinaman spinner Kuldeep Yadav has also returned after undergoing back surgery two months ago. He last played for India in October 2024 and is now fully fit.
3. Yashasvi Jaiswal Selected for the First Time
Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has been chosen for India’s ODI team for the first time. It remains to be seen whether he will get an opportunity to play in the ODI series and the Champions Trophy. The 22-year-old has already impressed in international cricket, scoring 1,798 runs in 19 Tests and 723 runs in 23 T20Is since making his debut in July 2023.
4. Shubman Gill Appointed Vice-Captain
Star batsman Shubman Gill has been made vice-captain for the England ODI series and the Champions Trophy. His appointment highlights his potential as a future leader for India. Despite the presence of experienced players like KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and Hardik Pandya, Gill remains a prominent figure in the leadership group. He previously captained India on the Zimbabwe tour last year.
5. Bet on the Spin All-Rounder Trio
India has placed its trust in the spin all-rounder trio of Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar. All three have been included in the 15-member squad. With all matches of the Champions Trophy set to be played in the UAE, spinners will play a crucial role. However, it may be difficult to include all three in the playing XI. Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya remains India’s only fast-bowling all-rounder.
India’s Champions Trophy Squad
Rohit Sharma (captain), 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.