Desk
Share
New Delhi: Rohit Sharma-led Team India will be eyeing a strong start in the Champions Trophy 2025 as they face Bangladesh in their opening match on Thursday, February 19 at the Dubai International Stadium.
India enter the tournament with high confidence, having recently whitewashed England 3-0 in a three-match ODI series at home. With winning momentum on their side, the Men in Blue will look to continue their dominant form against Bangladesh in their first group-stage fixture.
India's Road in Champions Trophy 2025
India’s entire campaign will be played in the UAE, as the BCCI refused to send the team to Pakistan for the multi-nation event. With only three matches per team in the group stage, every game is crucial for securing a spot in the knockout rounds.
India, placed in Group B, must finish in the top two to qualify for the next stage, making a strong start against Bangladesh essential.
Bowling Combination: Who Will Replace Jasprit Bumrah?
One of India's biggest concerns heading into the tournament is the absence of star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, forcing the team management to rethink their bowling attack.
With spin-friendly conditions expected in Dubai, India are likely to go with two specialist pacers alongside a strong spin attack.
Mohammed Shami is a sure-shot pick as the senior pacer.
The battle for the second pacer’s slot is between Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana.
Arshdeep Singh vs Harshit Rana: Who Will Make the Cut?
Harshit Rana:
- Made his ODI debut against England and played all three matches.
- Picked up six wickets in three games.
- Included in the squad as Bumrah’s replacement.
Arshdeep Singh:
- Played just one ODI vs England, picking up two wickets.
- More experienced than Rana, with 14 wickets in 9 ODIs at an economy of just over 5.
- Has been a proven wicket-taker in T20Is.
While Harshit Rana has been backed by the team management, Arshdeep’s experience and control could see him get the nod for the Bangladesh game.
Spin Attack: Kuldeep Yadav vs Varun Chakaravarthy
With Dubai’s conditions favoring spinners, India will likely field three spinners.
Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel are almost certain picks, providing all-round balance.
The toss-up for the third spinner’s slot is between Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy.
Kuldeep Yadav – More variety and big-match experience.
Varun Chakaravarthy – Could be considered to counter left-handers, but unlikely to start.
Given his consistent performances, Kuldeep Yadav is expected to be the preferred choice.
India’s Predicted Playing XI vs Bangladesh
Rohit Sharma (c)
Shubman Gill
Virat Kohli
Shreyas Iyer
KL Rahul (wk)
Hardik Pandya
Axar Patel
Ravindra Jadeja
Kuldeep Yadav
Mohammed Shami
Arshdeep Singh
Final Thoughts
With a settled batting lineup and a balanced bowling attack, India look well-prepared for their opening game. However, Bangladesh cannot be underestimated, especially in subcontinent conditions.
_711877080_100x75.jpg)
