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Akash Chopraformer Indian cricketer and noted commentator, has hit the headlines with his bold predictions about Team India for the upcoming Champions Trophy. Scheduled to begin on February 19, 2025, this prestigious tournament marks a significant return after an eight-year hiatus.
Chopra’s selections have sparked controversy, especially with the exclusion of notable players like Suryakumar Yadav i Sanju Samson.
Exclusions of Suryakumar Yadav and Sanju Samson
In a recent YouTube video, Chopra explained her reason for dropping Suryakumar Yadav, commonly known as SKY. He noted that Suryakumar has not featured in One Day Internationals (ODIs) recently and has struggled to make an impact in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25failing to score significant runs.
“I think Suryakumar Yadav will not be part of this team. He is not actually playing in ODIs and he has not scored runs on Vijay Hazare either.” Chopra stated. Similarly, he pointed out that Sanju Samson has not played a single 50-plus game, further reducing his chances of selection.
The strong case of Shreyas Iyer and Hardik Pandya
However, Chopra is optimistic about the inclusion of Shreyas Iyerwho thinks he’s in exceptional shape. “Suryakumar Yadav is not there, but Shreyas Iyer is. Since the start of the World Cup, he has scored 620 runs in 15 innings, with two centuries, at a strike rate of 112 and an average of 52. Iyer is on fire.” Chopra highlighted, highlighting Iyer’s consistent performance as a key factor in his selection.
Another significant name in Chopra’s projected team is the off-roader Hardik Pandya. Acknowledging Pandya’s recent performances in domestic cricket, Chopra stated that the Baroda-lad’s presence is crucial for the balance and depth of the team.
“Hardik Pandya has to be in the team, there is no doubt about it. He is playing in Vijay Hazare and also Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. He has played a lot of cricket because the question was he doesn’t play.” he remarked
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Context of the Champions Trophy 2025
The Champions Trophy holds immense importance for India, especially after failing to reach the final stages of the ICC World Test Championship 2025. The Indian team management is under pressure to reassess its strategy and his performance after a series of underwhelming results, including his recent tour. in Australia where they faced tough competition. The tournament will see India compete against other top cricketing nations, and the selectors are expected to finalize their squad shortly. The deadline to confirm provisional rosters is set for January 12, allowing teams some flexibility until February 13 to make adjustments.
Aakash Chopra Prediction of India Squad for Champions Trophy 2025
Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, Arshdep.
