India announced a strong 15-member squad led by Rohit Sharma for the ICC Men's Champions Trophy on January 18, 2025. The team, unveiled by chief selector Ajit Agarkar at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai, retains much of the core from the ODI World Cup 2023 while making room for some fresh faces and key returns. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami's inclusion bolsters India's pace attack, with Shubman Gill named as vice-captain.
Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, and Yashasvi Jaiswal are the notable new additions, while most of the World Cup squad members retain their spots. Yashasvi Jaiswal, long touted for an ODI call-up, will make his debut in the format, providing backup for the opening combination of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. The left-hander’s impressive form in Tests, T20Is, and domestic cricket has finally earned him a spot. Meanwhile, Arshdeep Singh replaces Mohammed Siraj in the lineup, adding a left-arm seam option to the mix.
The spin department sees a strong lineup with Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar, providing both experience and variety. Kuldeep’s return from injury was a significant highlight, as he proved his fitness just in time to make the cut.
Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul have been named as the designated wicketkeepers, ensuring depth in the batting lineup. Rahul, who regained form during the World Cup, continues to be a vital middle-order asset.
The squad announcement also spotlighted Jasprit Bumrah’s availability after concerns about his fitness following a back spasm during the Sydney Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Agarkar confirmed that Bumrah’s fitness would be monitored closely to ensure he remains in peak condition for the high-stakes tournament.
Shami, too, makes a triumphant return to the ODI setup. Having undergone foot surgery after the ODI World Cup 2023 final, Shami worked his way back through stellar performances in domestic cricket, including the Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. His inclusion adds experience and firepower to India’s pace battery.
The Champions Trophy promises to be an exciting test for this balanced and experienced squad, with Bumrah and Shami's availability expected to play a pivotal role in India's campaign. Fans will also be eager to witness Yashasvi Jaiswal's ODI debut, with hopes pinned on his dynamic batting abilities to shine on the global stage.
