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The next ICC trophy that India will be looking forward to winning after its triumph in the T20 World Cup 2024 will be the Champions Trophy 2025. The tournament is set to return after 8 years, with it scheduled to begin on February 19. Even though the tournament is currently set to be held in Pakistan, it might be moved to a hybrid model, after India refused to travel to the country. In whatever situation, India needs to field a strong playing XI to win their second title, and first since 2013.

Not Yashasvi Jaiswal! Shubman Gill To Open With Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma is set to return to the ODI format, as he aims to become the second Indian captain to win both the T20 World Cup and the Champions Trophy. He will open the batting as well, and his batting partner will be Shubman Gill and not Yashasvi Jaiswal. While Jaiswal has established himself as a starter in both Tests and T20Is, he is yet to make his ODI debut for India. Hence, it is unlikely that he will open the batting in the Champions Trophy.
Virat Kohli is set to come in at no.3, while Riyan Parag might come in at no.4. Parag has been a favourite of the current Indian team management since he gives them an extra option with the ball in the top order. Rishabh Pant will be India's designated wicketkeeper-batter in the side coming in at no.5.
Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar will be the all-rounders of the side and can help India extend their batting till no.8, which is a must in the batting conditions of UAE, where India might play their matches.

Mohammed Shami To Return

Mohammed Shami is currently out of action for Team Idia for more than a year. He has impressed on his return to first-class cricket with Bengal, and it might be expected that he will return to the squad for the Champions Trophy as well. He will form an exciting fast-paced partnership with Jasprit Bumrah. Kuldeep Yadav will be the specialist spinner. Pandya, Axar and Sundar will be bowling the rest of the 20 overs, and Riyan Parag can also chip in if needed.

India Predicted Playing XI For Champions Trophy 2025

Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Riyan Parag, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

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