He ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has already sparked excitement among cricket fans, with the tournament set to feature intense battles between the world’s best teams. For India, the stakes are high as they aim to win back-to-back ICC trophies, following their triumphant T20 World Cup 2024 campaign. Grouped with New Zealand, Bangladeshand Pakistan In Group A, India’s trip promises exciting encounters and fans are eagerly awaiting the team announcement.
India’s bowling a concern amid fitness issues
While India’s batting line-up remains a stronghold, fitness concerns in the bowling department have become a major challenge. The delay in announcing the Champions Trophy squad has increased speculation, especially regarding jasprit bumrahThe availability. The star pacer suffered a back spasm during the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney, raising questions about his involvement. Adding to the concerns is the Mohamed Shamireturns after a year-long injury hiatus, while young talents like Arshdeep Singh They are still finding their feet in ODIs.
READ ALSO: India or Pakistan? Mohammad Amir predicts the winner of the high-voltage Champions Trophy 2025 clash
Navjot Singh Sidhu reveals India’s bowling unit for Champions Trophy 2025
Former cricketer and commentator Navjot Singh Sidhu He recently shared his picks for India’s bowling lineup for the Champions Trophy. Sidhu selected Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Shami and left-arm pacer Arshdeep, emphasizing their potential as a “lethal match-winning combination”.
“Fast bowlers hunt in pairs or packs; a lone wolf is nothing more than an ineffective pack. With Mohammed Siraj bowling his heart out, Mohammed Shami in form and a left-arm pacer like Arshdeep Singh in the mix, India have a big advantage. Both he and Bumrah were instrumental during the 2024 World Cup, picking up wickets every 13 deliveries. “This quartet can put relentless pressure on opponents.” Sidhu wrote in X.
Fast bowler hunting in pairs or packs: a lone wolf is nothing more than an effective pack…. With @mdsirajofficial throwing your heart @MdShami11 fit and a left-hand fast bowler like @arshdeepsinghh It would be a big advantage – both he and Bumrah were picking up a wicket after the 13th delivery…
– Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) January 15, 2025
Sidhu on fitness of India’s leading pacer and delay in CT team
Sidhu expressed grave concern over Bumrah’s injury status, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding the star pacer’s availability and how it has contributed to the unprecedented delay in announcing India’s Champions Trophy squad. He noted that such delays are rare in the history of Indian cricket, particularly for a tournament as prestigious as the Champions Trophy.
“25 years of ICC history: India’s Champions Trophy team announcement delayed for the first time. The January 12 deadline has passed, selectors and teammates are waiting with bated breath, 1.5 billion hearts praying and hoping for the best, all eyes on Jasprit Bumrah. “His name alone defines the zenith of Indian cricket, his brilliance commands global reverence.” Sidhu said.
“However, the mystery of his injury is very great. This is not just a delay; It is the weight of a nation’s hope on the shoulders of a legend. “The cricket world stands still, awaiting Bumrah’s triumphant return.” he added.
“25 years of ICC history: India’s Champions Trophy team announcement delayed for the first time. The January 12 deadline has passed, selectors and teammates are waiting with bated breath, 1.5 billion hearts praying and hoping for the best, all eyes on Jasprit Bumrah. Just his name… pic.twitter.com/WQn5P7kxeN
– Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) January 15, 2025