Champions Trophy 2025: 3 Key Players for Team India

India is gearing up for the upcoming Champions Trophy with a three-match ODI series against England, following their five-match T20I series at home. However, due to political tensions, India has opted to play all their matches in Dubai instead of traveling to the primary host nation, Pakistan. 

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The Men in Blue have announced a strong 15-member squad for the tournament. After finishing as runners-up in the last edition, Rohit Sharma and his team will be determined to go one step further and claim the coveted title this time around.

Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness remains a concern for India heading into the Champions Trophy. Similarly, despite Mohammed Shami’s return to action in the recent T20I series, fans still have doubts about his full-match fitness. However, there are some players who can play a decisive role for India in this upcoming tournament.

Here are the 3 Key players for Team India in the Champions Trophy 2025 

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1. Virat Kohli

The veteran star batter will be crucial for India’s success in this tournament. While Virat Kohli has faced challenges in red-ball cricket recently, fans remain hopeful that he will rediscover his best form in the 50-over format. 

His performances in the 2023 ODI World Cup were exceptional, where he emerged as the tournament's highest run-scorer with 765 runs in 11 innings at an average of 95.62 and a strike rate of 90.31. Kohli was named the Player of the Tournament for his consistency, and India will be banking on him to deliver once again on the big stage.    

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2. Hardik Pandya

For any team to succeed in a marquee event, the role of an all-rounder is crucial in modern-day cricket. Hardik Pandya will be vital for India, bringing balance to the playing XI. Recently, he was in action during the T20I series against England, and his presence adds depth to both the batting and bowling departments. 

His ability to finish games with the bat, bowl in different phases, and showcase top-tier athleticism in the field makes him a key asset. If he finds form, Pandya could be a game-changer for India in the tournament.   

Before returning to international action in the recent T20I series, Pandya was actively involved in domestic cricket, featuring in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for Baroda. His participation in these tournaments was crucial in regaining match fitness and rhythm. 

3. Kuldeep Yadav

Pitch conditions in Dubai are expected to favour spinners, making Kuldeep Yadav a key figure in India's bowling attack. He will likely lead the spin department, with Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel providing support. Taking wickets in the middle overs will be crucial for India to build pressure and dictate terms against the opposition. 

Though Kuldeep is returning from an injury layoff, his performances in the 2023 ODI World Cup showed his value to the team. He picked up 15 wickets in 11 matches at an impressive economy rate of 4.45, proving his ability to trouble batters in crucial games. If he finds his rhythm, he could be a major weapon for India in the Champions Trophy.

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