As the Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, India finds itself in a familiar situation—entering a major ICC tournament with sky-high expectations but also significant challenges. From Jasprit Bumrah’s injury to questions over squad balance, the team’s preparations have been far from smooth. Can Rohit Sharma’s men rise above these setbacks, or will their campaign falter under pressure?
India’s Road to the Champions Trophy 2025
Over the past year, India has displayed flashes of brilliance across formats but also exposed vulnerabilities in crunch moments. The team dominated the Asia Cup 2023, reached the ODI World Cup final, and secured convincing victories against South Africa and England. However, their struggles in SENA conditions and key injuries have raised concerns ahead of the Champions Trophy in Dubai.
Injury Concerns and Squad Adjustments
The biggest setback came with Jasprit Bumrah’s injury, ruling him out just days before the tournament. India has drafted in Harshit Rana, a promising young seamer who impressed against England. While talented, he lacks the experience of leading an attack in a high-stakes ICC event. This leaves Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh with added responsibility in the pace department.
Beyond bowling concerns, India’s middle order has shown inconsistency. With Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul struggling for form, the team’s reliance on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remains significant. If these senior players fail to deliver, India’s batting could be exposed in pressure situations.
Key Fixtures – Defining India’s Campaign
India has been placed in a challenging group, facing familiar foes in conditions that may not fully suit them.
- India vs Bangladesh – February 20 (Dubai)
A must-win opener against an unpredictable Bangladesh side. A convincing victory could set the tone for the tournament. - India vs Pakistan – February 23 (Dubai)
The marquee clash. India has dominated Pakistan in recent ICC events, but the absence of Bumrah could tilt the balance. - India vs New Zealand – March 2 (Dubai)
A team that has historically troubled India in ICC tournaments. If qualification is on the line, this match could be a high-pressure decider.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Top-order experience: With Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill, India’s batting remains formidable.
- Spin department: Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav could be crucial in Dubai’s conditions.
- Death bowling alternatives: Despite Bumrah’s absence, India still has Siraj, Arshdeep, and all-rounders who can contribute.
Weaknesses:
- Over-reliance on senior players: If Rohit or Kohli fail, the middle order could struggle under pressure.
- Unproven pace attack: Without Bumrah, can Harshit Rana and Siraj step up against world-class opposition?
- Lack of recent ICC success: Despite strong squads, India has fallen short in knockout games in recent years.
Can India Win the Champions Trophy 2025?
India remains one of the strongest teams in the tournament, but key injuries and squad uncertainty make their path more difficult. If the senior players fire and the young bowlers rise to the occasion, they could still be serious title contenders. However, any slip-up in the group stage—especially against Pakistan or New Zealand—could derail their campaign.
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