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Like the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is coming up, cricket fans are eager to see how Team India will line up for his first match against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai. Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has offered his insights, revealing his preferred playing XI for the high-stakes encounter.
Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh lead the bowling attack
Bangar emphasized the importance of having jasprit bumrah i Arshdeep Singh in the playing eleven if both are fit and available. He suggested Mohammed Shami as a backup mower but not as a starter for the opening game.
“You take out one of the fast bowlers. If Arshdeep and Bumrah are available, then you can afford to drop someone like a Shami. So for me, Shami is not a starter,” Bangar shared during Star Sports show Follow the Blues.
Ravindra Jadeja over Axar Patel; Rishabh Pant is lost
In his selection, Bangar chose Ravindra Jadeja finished Axar Patel for the all-rounder’s role, citing Jadeja’s consistent performances and versatility. He also mentioned it Rishabh pants could remain on the bench, with KL Rahul putting on the gloves.
“Then one between Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel and a back-up wicketkeeper. So in that case Rishabh Pant can be on the benches. Bangar pointed out.
Read also: India Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar Answers Why Karun Nair Has Not Been Picked In 2025 Champions Trophy Squad
Mohammed Shami’s role and fitness considerations
While Bangar left Shami out of the starting eleven for the first match, he acknowledged the pacer’s importance to India’s campaign. Reflecting on Shami’s preparation, Bangar said: “He has gained fitness and is ready to bowl the required number of overs at high intensity.”
Bangar suggested that Shami could play a crucial role in the later matches, especially against strong opponents like England.
“The more games he plays, the better he will be, because that’s what history suggests about Mohammed Shami.” he added.
Sanjay Bangar’s India Xi for the inaugural Champions Trophy 2025
Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh.
