Like ICC Champions Trophy 2025 closer, cricket fans are eager to see how Team India will prepare for their first game with Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai. Former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar has given his insights, revealing his preferred playing XI for the top-flight.
Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh lead the bowling threat
Bangar emphasized the importance of having Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh in the playing XI if both are fit and available. He suggested Mohammed Shami as a backup seamer but not an opening batsman.
“You take out one of the pacers. If Arshdeep and Bumrah are both there, then you can take out someone like Shami. So for me, Shami is not the first,” Bangar shared on Star Sports Follow the Blues.
Ravindra Jadeja over Axar Patel; Rishabh Pant misses out
By choice, Bangar chose Ravindra Jadeja it's over Axar Patel on the role of all-rounder, citing Jadeja's consistency and versatility. He also said that Rishabh Pant can be on the bench, and KL Rahul wearing gloves.
“Then someone between Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel is one wicketkeeper. So in this case, Rishabh Pant can be on the benches,” Bangar said.
Also Read: India's chief selector Ajit Agarkar explains why Karun Nair was not selected in the Champions Trophy 2025 squad.
Mohammed Shami's position and his strong will
While Bangar excluded Shami from the starting XI for the opening match, he acknowledged the importance of the pacer in India's campaign. Reflecting on Shami's preparations, Bangar said, “He has worked hard and is ready to bowl the important overs with great intensity.”
Bangar also suggested that Shami could play an important role in the next match, especially against strong opponents like England.
“The more he plays, the better he gets, because that's what history shows about Mohammed Shami,” he added.
Sanjay Bangar of India Xi for Champions Trophy 2025 opener
Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh.