Former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh has added his voice to the growing debate about the ideal squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, suggesting that wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson should be preferred over Rishabh Pant. With the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) set to announce the squad for the mega event in the coming days, there is considerable speculation regarding which players will make the cut. Harbhajan, known for his incisive cricketing insights, has taken to his YouTube channel to share his thoughts on this matter.
Harbhajan’s endorsement of Samson over Pant stems from several factors, including Pant’s long season of Test cricket and his return to international cricket after a challenging recovery following a car accident. While Pant has had his moments in the Indian team, Harbhajan feels that Samson is the better choice for the upcoming ICC tournament. "I think one among Sanju Samson or Rishabh Pant should be picked. I feel Sanju should be preferred because he had played in South Africa. Rishabh played well in Australia, but it was a long tour, so if he is rested, it's not a big thing," Harbhajan said.
Sanju Samson has been in sensational form, particularly in T20Is, where he has shown his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Samson has notched up three centuries in his last seven T20I appearances and even scored an ODI century against South Africa in December 2023. In 16 ODIs, the Kerala-born cricketer has accumulated 510 runs at an average of 56.66, including one century and three fifties, which speaks volumes about his consistency and maturity. His performances with the bat have earned him a reputation as one of the most promising wicketkeeper-batters in Indian cricket today, which makes him an invaluable asset to the Indian team.
On the other hand, Rishabh Pant's form has been patchy since his return from injury, and Harbhajan feels that a rest might be beneficial for the young cricketer. Pant has only played one ODI since his comeback, which came against Sri Lanka in July 2024. Although he has been one of India's most dynamic players in the past, Harbhajan suggests that giving him a break could help him regain his fitness and focus for future challenges.
Furthermore, Harbhajan has also suggested the inclusion of Axar Patel over Ravindra Jadeja in the all-rounder role. Patel's recent form, particularly during the T20 World Cup 2024, where he was instrumental with both bat and ball, has convinced Harbhajan that Axar is ready to step into the shoes of Jadeja. "I have chosen Axar Patel over Ravindra Jadeja. I think Axar is ready to fulfill the role that Jadeja has done for so many years," Harbhajan explained.
Axar Patel has been in remarkable form in recent months, and his contributions to India’s success in the T20 World Cup 2024 were vital. The all-rounder scored 92 runs from five innings, including a match-winning knock of 47 runs off 31 balls in the final. Alongside his batting prowess, Patel’s left-arm spin also played a pivotal role in India’s success during the tournament, as he claimed nine wickets from eight matches, with notable performances against Pakistan and England. His ability to provide balance to the side, both with the bat and the ball, makes him a crucial asset for India in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.
Patel’s absence from the 2023 ODI World Cup, due to an injury, was a blow to India’s middle-order and bowling attack. However, with his fitness now at its peak, Patel is eager to showcase his all-round skills and help India secure another ICC title. His performances in the T20 World Cup have only heightened expectations, and there is a growing sense that Patel is ready to take on greater responsibility within the team.
As India prepares for the Champions Trophy, the debate about player selections will be crucial in determining the squad’s composition. The inclusion of players like Sanju Samson, Axar Patel, and the possible exclusion of veterans like Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant signifies the dynamic nature of the selection process. The upcoming Champions Trophy is expected to be a high-stakes event, with teams vying for one of the most prestigious titles in the cricketing world. As India builds its squad for the event, the choices made in selecting the right mix of youth and experience will determine their chances of success on the global stage.
Given the depth of talent available, Harbhajan’s insights suggest that India is in a strong position to make a powerful impact in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
