As ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approach, cricket enthusiasts can’t wait to see how Team India will meet in the first game against Bangladesh February 20 in Dubai. Former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar offered his insights, revealing his preferred XI for the high-stakes encounter.
Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh lead the bowling attack
Bangar emphasized the importance of possession Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh in the playing XI if both are fit and available. He proposed Mohammed Shami as a backup seamer, but not a starter for the opening game.
“You eliminate one of the fast bowlers. If Arshdeep and Bumrah are both available, then you can afford to leave out someone like Shami. So for me Shami is not a starter,” Bangar shared during the Star Sports Follow the Blues show.
Ravindra Jadeja over Axar Patel; Rishabh Pant misses out
In his choice, Bangar chose Ravindra Jadeja over Axar Patel for the role of an all-rounder, citing Jadeja’s consistent performances and versatility. He mentioned that too Rishabh Pant could stay on the bench, with KL Rahul putting on gloves.
“Then one between Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel and one back-up wicketkeeper. So, in this case, Rishabh Pant could be on the bench,” Bangar remarked.
Also read: India chief coach Ajit Agarkar answers why Karun Nair was not picked in the 2025 Champions Trophy squad.
A review of Mohammed Shami’s role and ability
While Bangar left Shami out of the starting 11 for the first game, he acknowledged the pacer’s importance to India’s campaign. Reflecting on Shami’s readiness, Bangar said, “He has tightened his fitness and is ready to bowl the required number of overs with high intensity.”
Bangar suggested that Shami could play a crucial role in the next matches, especially against strong opponents like England.
“The more matches he plays, the better he gets, because that’s what history says about Mohammed Shami,” he added.
Sanjay Bangar’s India Xi for Champions Trophy 2025 introduction
Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh
Also read: BCCI announces India squad for ODIs in England and Champions Trophy 2025, no place for Mohammed Siraj
