The Champions Trophy jigsaw puzzle: A breakdown of the options India could consider in the weeks leading up to the CT25
ODI series against England could serve as a dress rehearsal for under-pressure India. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s form under scrutiny, Jasprit Bumrah’s injury and doubts over Mohammed Shami’s return, it is a rare white-ball tournament where India would be considered favourites. The shift in expectations might not be a bad thing for the Indian men’s cricket team in the current circumstances.
Before that, India have to make certain decisions regarding their personnel. Here is a role-wise breakdown of the options that the selectors could consider while picking up the squad:
OPENERS: ROHIT, GILL, JAISWAL
Rohit and Shubman Gill are likely to be the first-choice options going into the tournament. Rohit has been a stellar performer in white-ball cricket. His redball woes notwithstanding, the captain can well rediscover his mojo in the 50-over format. It was his efforts at the 2023 World Cup that helped India get off to flying starts and he will want to do the same in Dubai, where India will play their Champions Trophy matches. Gill, however, needs to be more consistent. While he deserves his place in the starting eleven, he will know that a few bad games could result in Yashasvi Jaiswal getting a look in. In that sense, the Champions Trophy is a big test for Gill as well. Jaiswal is going to be India’s back-up opener to start with. He offers the left-hand option that India miss in the top order.
MIDDLE-ORDER: KOHLI, IYER, RAHUL, PANT, PANDYA, REDDY, SAMSON
There is no debate that Virat Kohli will be India’s No.
