Ahead of the high-stakes Champions Trophy clash against Pakistan, Team India might consider one key change in their bowling lineup.
February 23, 2025: After a dominant opening victory against Bangladesh in the Champions Trophy, India is set to face their biggest challenge yet—arch-rivals Pakistan. With Shubman Gill’s century setting the tone in the first match, India enters the contest with momentum. However, captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir might consider tweaking the playing XI based on the opposition’s strengths.
Stable Top Order with Focus on Kohli’s Form
The opening duo of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill is expected to remain unchanged, given their solid 69-run partnership against Bangladesh. At No. 3, Virat Kohli will hold his place despite a dip in form. Reports suggest that Kohli has put in extra hours at the nets, working specifically on his gameplay against spin, which will be crucial against Pakistan’s bowling attack.
Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul will likely slot in at No. 4 and No. 5, respectively, ensuring a dependable middle order.
Powerful All-Rounder Core
India’s depth in all-rounders has been a major asset under Gautam Gambhir’s leadership. Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel provide the team with crucial balance in both batting and bowling. Harshit Rana, primarily a pacer, also offers some capability with the bat.
Potential Change in Spin Attack
Against Bangladesh, India fielded three spinners—Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja. However, for the Pakistan clash, a possible change could see Varun Chakravarthy replacing Kuldeep Yadav. The decision will depend on the pitch conditions and match-ups against Pakistan’s batting lineup.
Also Read: Champions Trophy: India vs Pakistan: Where & How to Watch the Blockbuster Clash
Pace Department Remains Unchanged
Mohammed Shami and Harshit Rana impressed in the first game and are expected to retain their spots. Arshdeep Singh, who remains on standby, is unlikely to be brought into the XI for this fixture.
India’s Likely Playing XI vs Pakistan:
- Openers: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill
- Middle-Order: Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk)
- All-Rounders: Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja
- Spinners: Kuldeep Yadav/Varun Chakravarthy
- Pacers: Mohammed Shami, Harshit Rana
With Pakistan in a must-win situation and India eyeing a semifinal spot, all eyes will be on whether India sticks with their winning combination or opts for a tactical change in their spin department.
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India vs Pakistan, Champions Trophy 2025, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Mohammed Shami, Team India Playing XI