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like him ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, cricket enthusiasts are eager to see how Indian team will line up for his first game against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai. Former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar has offered his thoughts, revealing his preferred XI for the high-stakes fixture.
Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh lead the bowling attack
Bangar emphasized the importance of having jasprit bumrah and Arshdeep Singh in the playing eleven if both are fit and available. he suggested Mohamed Shami as a substitute closer but not a starter for the opening game.
“You remove one of the fast bowlers. If Arshdeep and Bumrah are available, then you can afford to leave out someone like Shami. So for me, Shami is not a starter.” Bangar shared during the Star Sports show Follow the Blues.
Ravindra Jadeja on Axar Patel; Rishabh’s pants get lost
In his selection, Bangar chose Ravindra Jadeja on Axar Patel for the all-rounder role, citing Jadeja’s consistent performances and versatility. He also mentioned that RISHABH PANTS could remain on the bench, with KL Rahul put on gloves.
“Then one between Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel and a reserve goalkeeper. So in this case, Rishabh Pant can be on the benches.” Bangar pointed out.
Also Read: India chief selector Ajit Agarkar answers why Karun Nair has not been picked in the squad for Champions Trophy 2025
Mohammed Shami’s role and fitness considerations
While Bangar excluded Shami from the starting XI for the opening match, he acknowledged the pacer’s importance to India’s campaign. Reflecting on Shami’s disposition, Bangar said: “He has gained form and is ready to bowl the required number of overs with high intensity.”
Bangar suggested that Shami could play a crucial role in later matches, particularly against strong opponents like England.
“The more games he plays, the better he becomes, because that’s what history suggests about Mohammed Shami.” he added.
Sanjay Bangar’s India Xi for the first match of the Champions Trophy 2025
Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (Goalkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh.
