India's 2025 Champions Trophy Squad Ignites Debate

India has announced its squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, focusing on a mix of spin-bowling all-rounders and fast bowlers, sparking discussions on team balance. Former player Aakash Chopra criticized the selection, suggesting that more pace bowlers could be beneficial in Dubai’s conditions, while former batting coach Sanjay Bangar suggested that Mohammed Shami may not start, advocating for Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah. The tournament, initially set to take place in Pakistan and Dubai, will now focus on Dubai. Rohit Sharma leads the team with spin-bowling all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, and Kuldeep Yadav. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Test series strategy includes preparing spin-friendly pitches, a move with mixed results. The selectors aim to balance batting and bowling capabilities while considering player injuries and pitch conditions.