ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Australia has announced its 15-player preliminary squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to take place in Pakistan and the UAE from February 19 to March 9. The squad aims to build on Australia's rich history in the tournament, having previously lifted the trophy in 2006 and 2009.
Pat Cummins, despite nursing an ankle issue, has been named captain, reinforcing his leadership role in a team filled with experience and emerging talent.
The announcement brings some fresh faces into the spotlight. All-rounders Matt Short and Aaron Hardie have earned their maiden call-ups for an ICC event, adding versatility and depth to the lineup. Both players have been standout performers in domestic cricket, with Short impressing as an opener following David Warner's retirement and Hardie showcasing his all-round prowess.
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_678496e12183d.jpg" alt="">
Meanwhile, Nathan Ellis, known for his sharp bowling in the Big Bash League, has also secured a spot in the squad, strengthening Australia's pace options.
While the squad sees promising inclusions, it also marks a few notable exclusions. Jake Fraser-McGurk, who was pitched as Warner’s successor, has been left out after a string of underwhelming performances in ODIs. Additionally, Cameron Green and Sean Abbott missed out due to injuries, while Warner’s retirement left a significant void in the top order.
Australia's bowling attack remains their strongest asset, with the return of the formidable pace trio—Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc. Hazlewood, recovering from a calf injury that sidelined him during the India Test series, is expected to play a key role in the tournament.
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_678496e337c76.jpg" alt="">
Ellis joins the trio, bringing a fresh dimension to the attack, while Adam Zampa will lead the spin department with his precision and guile.
On the batting front, seasoned players like Steve Smith and Travis Head are expected to anchor the innings. Head, alongside Short, will likely open the batting, with Smith and Marnus Labuschagne forming the backbone of the middle order.
All-rounders Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and Mitch Marsh add firepower and balance, ensuring Australia has depth in both batting and bowling.
Pat Cummins’ availability was initially under question, given his ongoing ankle issue and his decision to skip the Sri Lanka Test series to be with his wife Becky for the birth of their second child. However, the captain has committed to leading the side in this marquee event, reflecting his dedication to the team’s campaign.
"It’s a balanced squad, combining experience with exciting new talent," selection chair George Bailey said, emphasizing the team’s readiness to adapt to the conditions in Pakistan.
Australia is placed in Group B alongside Afghanistan, England, and South Africa. Their campaign kicks off against England on February 22 in Lahore, a high-stakes clash that promises to set the tone for the tournament.
The team's only warm-up match will be against Sri Lanka in Hambantota, three days after the conclusion of the Sri Lanka Test series.
With a blend of experience, fresh talent, and the hunger to end a 15-year drought, Australia enters the ICC Champions Trophy as a strong contenders. Fans will eagerly watch as the team strives to reclaim the coveted title and add another chapter to their rich cricketing legacy.
<h2>Australia’s Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 </h2>
Pat Cummins (C), Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitch Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.
READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/new-zealand-squad-for-icc-champions-trophy-announced-williamson-returns-as-santner-set-to-lead-/">New Zealand Squad for ICC Champions Trophy Announced; Williamson Returns as Santner Set to Lead!</a>
SOURCE- <a href="https://x.com/cricketcomau/status/1878594147034255371">Cricket Australia Official</a>

Australia Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Australia has announced a balanced 15-player squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, featuring Pat Cummins as captain, experienced stars, and fresh talents like Matt Short and Aaron Hardie.  

Australia’s squad for Champions Trophy 2025 combines experience and fresh talent, with Pat Cummins leading alongside emerging all-rounders and seasoned players.

Australia Squad For Champions Trophy Announced! Cummins to Lead the Preliminary 15-Men Squad

australia-squad-for-champions-trophy-announced-cummins-to-lead-the-preliminary-15-men-squad

India captain Rohit Sharma has been under the massive scanner for his leadership of late. This is because he looked extremely torrid as a leader in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, which saw Australia winning the series by the margin of 3-1 and qualifying for the final of the ICC World Test Championship. 
Rohit Sharma, after the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, was seen attending the BCCI's review meeting in Mumbai. As per the reports in Dainik Jagran, it is learned that the captaincy of the team was one of the talking points of the meeting of the governing body. 
The reports claimed that Rohit Sharma, during the meeting, stood up for himself and told the selectors that he would continue coaching the team in the Tests and ODIs. However, he will lead the team till the time BCCI finds a successor for him in both formats.
<h2>Rohit Sharma to be captain until the board chooses the future captain</h2>
As per the reports, Rohit Sharma told BCCI: "he will remain the skipper for the next few months until the board chooses the future captain" and that whoever is picked will have his “full support.” 
Rohit Sharma will continue captaining the Indian team till the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Till then, there will be no threat to his leadership. However, after the tournament, there will be a hunt for the new skipper of the team in both ODIs as well as the longest format of the game.
The reports added that Jasprit Bumrah's name as the Test captain was also discussed, but there were a lot of questions raised as well. The selectors believe that the only problem in giving captaincy to Bumrah is if the fast bowler will be able to manage the workload and play all games of the series. 
The future of Rohit Sharma as a batter, as well as the captain will be decided based on how he performs in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. If the skipper fails to set the stage on fire, it won't be a surprise if the batter's career comes to an end, considering the amount of criticism he faced in Australia.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/preview/rohit-sharma-and-virat-kohli-s-future-very-dull-both-to-get-one-final-chance-to-prove-themselves-/">Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's future very dull; both to get one final chance to prove themselves</a>

Rohit Sharma will continue captaining the Indian team till the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Rohit Sharma categorically tells selector he wants to captain India in Tests and ODIs till...

rohit-sharma-categorically-tells-selector-he-wants-to-captain-india-in-tests-and-odis-till-

India captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli might not be playing for long in Indian colours. As per the reports in India Today, it is learned that fate of the both the stalwarts will depend on how they will perform in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which will be played next month. 
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been under massive scanner for their poor performances of late. The duo, who carried the batting lineup of the team, are at the fag end of their career, and it's fair to say that runs are not coming for them, which has put them under the pump. 
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli failed in the entire Test season at home and, after that, failed to get going in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. However, this has put their career in white-ball cricket under the scanner as well, with youngsters consistently getting runs. 
The poor of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma was discussed during the review meeting of the BCCI. It was learned that officials looked at why the batters were struggling to get going, especially with some quality players in the ranks. 
<h2>Everything depends on their performance in the Champions Trophy - BCCI source on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli</h2>
The focus was on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as well. The reports claimed that a new captaincy option is being discussed after the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. It is learned that if the results don't go their way then there will be massive changes in the team.
On Virat Kohli, it is learned that the batter needs to score runs, and if he fails to perform in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, then only there will be harsh calls. 
"As of now, nothing will happen, but the management is considering captaincy changes going forward after the Champions Trophy. If things do not change, steps may be taken regarding captaincy. 
"As far as Virat is concerned, he also needs to show some runs, but I don’t see either of them being removed from the Test team as we speak. Everything depends on their performance in the Champions Trophy," a source told India today. 
If the reports are to be believed, then the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be a massive tournament for both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Both the players will be keen to make an impact, and if that doesn't happen, then we might see a new era in Indian cricket.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-unlucky-stars-who-are-dropped-from-the-squad-for-england-t20is-one-is-the-ipl-captain/"> 3 Unlucky stars who are dropped from the squad for England T20Is; one is the IPL captain</a>

India captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli might not be playing for long in Indian colours

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's future very dull; both to get one final chance to prove themselves

rohit-sharma-and-virat-kohli-s-future-very-dull-both-to-get-one-final-chance-to-prove-themselves-

Fierce-Rivals India (IND) and England (ENG) are set to take on each other in a five-match T20 International series which will begin from the 22nd of January. The opening match of this series will be played at Kolkata's iconic Eden Gardens Cricket Stadium. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has already announced Team India's squad for the series and majority of the key players have picked in the team. 
Ahead of Champions Trophy 2025, the Indian team selectors will be keeping an eye on the performance of certain players, one of whom is Fast Bowling All-Rounder Hardik Pandya, who performed exceptionally well in the shortest format of the game in 2024. The 31-year-old has a phenomenal record versus England in T20 Internationals with both bat &amp; ball and he will get a big opportunity to create a massive record in the forthcoming five-match T20 International series.
<h2>Junior Pandya needs to take just three more wickets to break this record</h2>
At present, the record for the highest number of wickets taken by an Indian in T20 Internationals versus England is held by leg spinner Yuzvendra Chahal. He has dismissed 16 batters in 11 T20 matches versus the Three Lions at an average of 21.12. While Yuzi is not a part of the squad for the forthcoming series, Hardik is going to play and he has a chance to script history. 
In 15 T20i matches versus the Englishmen, the 31-year-old has 14 scalps next to his name with an average of 25.42. In such a situation, if Pandya manages to dismiss three more English batters in the upcoming five-match series, then he will become the highest wicket-taker for Team India in the shortest format of the game versus England.
<h2>Hardik Pandya's performance has been really good in T20 International matches</h2>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_6783b2ad34cc4.jpg" alt="" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
Hardik is currently regarded as one of the best fast-bowling All Rounders in T20 Cricket. He has taken part in 109 T20i encounters so far and has amassed 1,700 runs at a decent average of 27.87, in which he has also hit four fifties at a really good strike-rate of 141.90.
With the ball, the Mumbai Indians skipper has dismissed a total of 89 batters with an economy rate of 8.17 and an average of 26.62. His best-figures with the ball currently stand at 4/16. 
The BCCI recently unveiled the Men in Blue's squad for the T20 International serias versus England and while Pandya is a part of the squad, he's no longer the vice-captain of the team and that responsibility has been handed over to Axar Patel.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/new-zealand-squad-for-icc-champions-trophy-announced-williamson-returns-as-santner-set-to-lead-/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">New Zealand Squad for ICC Champions Trophy Announced; Williamson Returns as Santner Set to Lead!</a>

Hardik Pandya of India catches the ball | Image: Getty Images

Hardik Pandya has a massive opportunity to script history in the upcoming five-match T20 International series versus England

Hardik Pandya has massive chance of rewriting history in the T20I series versus England

Hardik Pandya has a chance to script history, on the verge of breaking this record versus England

hardik-pandya-has-a-chance-to-script-history-on-the-verge-of-breaking-this-record-versus-england

The review meeting of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) took place on Saturday (12th January), and it saw some harsh discussions taking place with BCCI President Roger Binny and other officials, Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar at the helm of things. 
As per the reports in Hindustan Times, it is learned that one of the major topics of the review meeting was the coaching staff of the Gautam Gambhir. This comes after the poor performances of the team in the Tests and the ODIs of late under the new coaching staff. 
Gautam Gambhir has been under the massive scanner ever since he was appointed as the head coach, but nothing has gone in India's way. The coach reportedly was grilled during the review meeting and his coaching staff came under scanner as well. 
<h2>BCCI is unhappy with Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate being the assistant coaches</h2>
BCCI is unhappy with Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate being the assistant coaches. They are of the opinion that the duo lacks coaching expertise, especially in Test cricket. The source added that there are chances that more experienced coaching staff might come into place before England Tests. Speaking to Hindustan Times, he explained: 
"Except bowling coach Morne Morkel, who comes with a body of work as a Test player, there is a growing opinion within the team set-up that assistant coaches Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate are lacking in coaching expertise, particularly when it comes Test cricket.There is a possibility of more reinforcements in the coaching staff, those with technical expertise for the tour of England." 
The BCCI reportedly will be taking action after the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. If the result doesn't go their way some of the massive steps will be taken in Indian cricket. With all the tides against him, Gautam Gambhir will now be hoping to silence all the critics and reply in style. 
It remains to be seen how the Indian team will be fair in ICC Champions Trophy 2025. If the results don't go their way then there are chances that Gautam Gambhir might be sacked as a coach. India, in the recent past, has lost the ODI series to Sri Lanka, the Tests against New Zealand and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-unlucky-stars-who-are-dropped-from-the-squad-for-england-t20is-one-is-the-ipl-captain/"> 3 Unlucky stars who are dropped from the squad for England T20Is; one is the IPL captain</a>

Gautam Gambhir has been under the massive scanner ever since he was appointed as the head coach,

Gautam Gambhir's coaching staff set to be sacked? BCCI to take major call ahead of England Tests

gautam-gambhir-s-coaching-staff-set-to-be-sacked-bcci-to-take-major-call-ahead-of-england-tests-

In what has been a massive development, as per the reports in Times of India, it is learned that skipper Rohit Sharma had decided to retire after the Melbourne Cricket Ground Test. But 'well-wishers' urged the captain of the team not to go with the decision. 
Rohit Sharma joined the Indian team in Australia after the Perth Test as he missed the first game due to the birth of his second child. However, his return didn't go as he would've wanted as he failed badly in the rest of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 against Australia. 
Rohit Sharma batted in middle order in Adelaide and Gabba but he failed in both the games. However, after that, he decided to go up the order and that too didn't work as he failed in both innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne. 
<h2>Had his well-wishers from the outside didn't force him to change his mind, we could have well seen another retirement in Australia - Source on Rohit Sharma </h2>
With things not going well for him as a captain as well as the batter, Rohit Sharma had decided to retire, but well-wishers from the outside forced him to change the decision. The India captain, however, changed his mind, and hence, instead of retiring, he dropped himself. 
"Rohit had made up his mind after MCG. Had his well-wishers from the outside didn't force him to change his mind, we could have well seen another retirement in Australia," said a source aware of developments. 
Rohit Sharma had also conveyed to Gautam Gambhir about the decision to retire as well. However, the change in mind didn't go well with the head coach. The reports added that the things between the coach and the captain weren't good as they weren't on the same page in most of the decisions. 
The duo of Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir will be back in action together in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. It remains to be seen how they will fare together as the India Team has come under massive scanner for their poor performances of late.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/rohit-sharma-reaches-mumbai-bcci-to-ask-tough-questions-to-gautam-gambhir-in-review-meeting-fate-of-virat-kohli-decided-/">Rohit Sharma reaches Mumbai, BCCI to ask tough questions to Gautam Gambhir in review meeting, fate of Virat Kohli decided</a>

In what has been a massive development, as per the reports in Times of India, it is learned that skipper Rohit Sharma had decided to retire after the Melbourne Cricket Ground Test

Gautam Gambhir upset with Rohit Sharma not retiring after the captain decided to hang up boost after the MCG Test

gautam-gambhir-upset-with-rohit-sharma-not-retiring-after-the-captain-decided-to-hang-up-boost-after-the-mcg-test

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (11th January) announced the Indian squad for the T20I series against England as per the reports in Indian Express. The two teams will be locking horns with each other in the five-match T20I series, starting 21st January 
Mohammed Shami will be making his return for India in the T20I series against England. It will be the first appearance for him in the Indian colours after the ICC World Cup 2023, and this will be a massive boost for the team ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. 
Another major development in the squad is Rishabh Pant has been dropped from the team as India went with Sanju Samson as the first-choice keeper. The right-hander has been sensational for the team with the bat in T20Is. As a second keeper, Dhruv Jurel has got the nod ahead. 
All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, too, has been named in the Indian team for the T20I series against England. All-rounder Shivam Dube has been dropped from the team along with Ramandeep Singh, who was part of the squad for the T20I series against South Africa. 
Abhishek Sharma is also among the notable omissions from the squad. This is because young opening batter Yashasvi Jaiswal has been added to the team. All-rounder Riyan Parag has been recovering from the injury and hence didn't get picked in the team for the five-match series against England 
Pace bowler Harshit Rana, too, has been named in the Indian team for the England series and will be partnered by Arshdeep Singh. Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakravarthy and Washington Sundar are the spinners. 
India T20 squad for the series against England 
Here's the Indian T20 squad for the series against England 
Suryakumar Yadav (C), Sanju Samson (wk), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Nitish Reddy, Mohd Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakravarthy and Washington Sundar 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/rohit-sharma-reaches-mumbai-bcci-to-ask-tough-questions-to-gautam-gambhir-in-review-meeting-fate-of-virat-kohli-decided-/">Rohit Sharma reaches Mumbai, BCCI to ask tough questions to Gautam Gambhir in review meeting, fate of Virat Kohli decided</a>

Mohammed Shami will be making his return for India in the T20I series against England.

India's squad for the T20I series against England announced Mohammed Shami returns, Rishabh Pant dropped

india-s-squad-for-the-t20i-series-against-england-announced-mohammed-shami-returns-rishabh-pant-dropped-

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is all set to take a review meeting related to Team India's poor performances in Test and ODI cricket of late. The reports in Danik Jagron have revealed that head coach Gautam Gambhir, skipper Rohit Sharma and selector Ajit Agarkar will be questioned. 
The BCCI reportedly is unhappy with the India team's ODI series loss against Sri Lanka, home Test series loss against New Zealand and the poor performances in the ICC World Test Championship.  Hence, the captain and coach will be at the helm of tough questions. 
BCCI President Roger Binny, Vice President Rajiv Shukla, Interim Secretary Devjit Saikia and other officials will be there at the meeting. As per the reports, no harsh decision like sacking will be taking place but questions will be raised over the selection of the team and some other decisions. 
Gautam Gambhir is all set to be grilled as some of his decisions during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, like picking two spinners in Sydney, Ravichandran Ashwin's retirement mid-series and also some of the dressing rooms leaks, will be discussed. Along with him Ajit Agarkar too will be facing questions related to selections. 
<h2>Gautam Gambhir and his support staff will continue in the role as the BCCI doesn't want to make changes with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025</h2>
Gautam Gambhir and his support staff will continue in the role as the BCCI doesn't want to make changes with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 around the corner. Along with the review of the team's poor performance, the selection discussions will also be taking place. 
The reports also added that there is no threat over the place of  Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in ODIs. But their future in Tests will be discussed. However, immediately, any decision won't be taken as the prime focus will be on the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
India, under Gautam Gambhir, has been having a hard time. They faced a 3-0 loss to New Zealand at home, then suffered a 3-1 loss against Australia, which saw them getting eliminated from the race to reach the final of the ICC World Test Championship. Also, in ODIs, they lost to Sri Lanka for the first time in 27 years. 
The India captain Rohit Sharma has arrived in Mumbai as well. The meeting will soon get underway. It remains to be seen what will be the future of the team.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ravindra-jadeja-announces-test-retirement-all-rounder-shares-a-cryptic-post-on-social-media-left-fans-guessing/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ravindra Jadeja announces Test Retirement? All-rounder shares a cryptic post on social media, left fans guessing</a>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is all set to take a review meeting related to Team India's poor performances in Test and ODI cricket of late

Rohit Sharma reaches Mumbai, BCCI to ask tough questions to Gautam Gambhir in review meeting, fate of Virat Kohli decided

rohit-sharma-reaches-mumbai-bcci-to-ask-tough-questions-to-gautam-gambhir-in-review-meeting-fate-of-virat-kohli-decided-

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: As the days go by, the buzz around speculations and predictions continues to intensify. For Team India, squad predictions have become a hot topic of discussion, sparking debates everywhere—from cricket fanatics on social media to casual conversations on the streets. Amid this growing excitement, one key question stands out: who will don the wicketkeeping gloves for India in the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
With numerous cricket experts and pundits making bold predictions about India's squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, a common thread runs through most discussions: the inclusion of KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and Sanju Samson.
However, opinions are far from unanimous. While some former cricketers have opted to leave Rishabh Pant out of their squads, others argue for his inclusion at the expense of Sanju Samson, fueling a heated debate among fans and analysts alike. Let's discuss all three options one by one:
<h2>KL Rahul Frontrunner to Keep Wickets?</h2>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_677fef7181149.jpg" alt="">
KL Rahul has made a compelling case to be India’s primary wicketkeeping option in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar praised Rahul’s ability to deliver consistently under pressure, highlighting his crucial contributions at No. 5 and his knack for scoring vital runs when the team needed them most.
Rahul’s reliability behind the stumps was further cemented by his record-breaking performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup. With 17 dismissals, including 16 catches and one stumping, he surpassed Rahul Dravid’s 2003 record for the most dismissals by an Indian wicketkeeper in a single World Cup edition.
These achievements underscore his dual efficiency with both the gloves and the bat, solidifying his place as a frontrunner for the role in high-stakes tournaments like the Champions Trophy.
<h2>Is Rishabh Pant Ready for ODI Format?</h2>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_677ff4b385bc4.jpg" alt="">
Rishabh Pant has proven his mettle in the Test format, but his performances in white-ball cricket have been inconsistent, as highlighted by his ODI stats: 871 runs in 31 matches at an average of 33.50 and a strike rate of 106.21. Despite his potential, these numbers suggest he lacks the maturity required for high-pressure limited-overs cricket.
However, Pant’s wicketkeeping skills set him apart. Among the three contenders, he is the most agile and reliable behind the stumps, with quick reflexes, sharp accuracy, and adaptability to various conditions. While his batting in ODIs needs improvement, his exceptional glove work makes him a strong contender for a spot in the squad.
<h2>Can Sanju's Form Secure Him a Spot?</h2>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_677ff4b73d5fc.jpg" alt="">
Sanju Samson’s impressive ODI stats—510 runs in 16 matches at an average of 56.66 and a strike rate of 99.60—underscore his potential as a reliable wicketkeeper-batter. His ability to capitalize on limited opportunities, including a century and three fifties, makes him a strong contender for the squad.
Sanjay Bangar also stated, “You have to give a place to Sanju Samson because he averages above 50 in ODI cricket. Add to that, he is a man in form as well.”
When compared to Rishabh Pant, Samson’s batting stats are significantly better, highlighting his consistency in white-ball cricket. Moreover, Samson’s wicketkeeping skills are nearly on par with Pant’s, making him a well-rounded option. His current form further solidifies his chances of overtaking Pant in the race for the role.
<h2> Who Will Keep Wickets?</h2>
KL Rahul, with his record-breaking wicketkeeping performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup and consistent contributions as a batter, emerges as the frontrunner for India’s primary wicketkeeper role. Sanju Samson, backed by Sanjay Bangar for his stellar ODI average of 56.66 and solid form, is a strong contender for the backup spot.
Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant’s exceptional wicketkeeping skills and proven Test success make him a valuable asset, though his inconsistent white-ball batting leaves room for improvement. Together, these options reflect India’s enviable depth in the wicketkeeping department heading into the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. 
The weight is on KL Rahul to be the first-choice wicketkeeper. Shreyas Iyer is fit and actively playing cricket to provide a good balance in the team and in his presence, KL Rahul would be the best option. Sanju Samson would be a better batter and wicketkeeper in the backup if we take Stats into account. Rishabh Pant might have to wait for a while in the white ball cricket.

With KL Rahul’s consistency, Sanju Samson’s form, and Rishabh Pant’s agility, who should India trust as their wicketkeeper in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025? The race is closer than ever.

India’s wicketkeeping dilemma: Rahul’s reliability, Samson’s form, or Pant’s agility? A tough decision awaits ahead of the Champions Trophy.

Who Will Keep Wickets for India in ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Sanju Samson, Rishabh Pant, or KL Rahul?

who-will-keep-wickets-for-india-in-icc-champions-trophy-2025-sanju-samson-rishabh-pant-or-kl-rahul-

India keeper-batter Sanju Samson might be a surprise inclusion in the Indian team for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. As per the reports in India Today, it is learned that the right-hander is likely to be there as the backup keeper for Rishabh Pant in the team. 
The reports stated that Sanju Samson's inclusion in the Indian team will depend on how the BCCI treats Gautam Gambhir. It is learned that if the head coach has the same say in the selection matters that he had during the Australia tour, then the keeper-batter might be included in the Indian team for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. 
The India squad for the Australia tour was mostly picked on the recommendation of Gautam Gambhir. The head coach played a huge role in the selection of Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy. But the team failing badly there didn't go any good to the head coach. 
Some reports claimed that head coach Gautam Gambhir won't be having a say in selection matters. However, if that isn't the case, then the reports in India Today say that the head coach's favourite, Sanju Samson, will be picked for the team for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. 
 Rishabh Pant will be the first-choice keeper in the team, and Sanju Samson will be serving as backup.
It is learned that Rishabh Pant will be the first-choice keeper in the team, and Sanju Samson will be serving as backup. This will be a massive step for the Indian team going forward, as Samson has been in hot form in white-ball cricket, especially in T20 cricket. 
Sanju Samson has made a staggering return to the Indian T20I setup as he slammed three centuries in the two series that were played. The keeper-batter also has a great record in the ODIs as well as he has an average of over 56 in his short career and would want to cash on that as well. 
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is all set to begin from 19th February. The Indian team for the tournament is all set to be announced soon, and it is learned that Rohit Sharma will be leading the team, which will see some of the expected names.

India keeper-batter Sanju Samson might be a surprise inclusion in the Indian team for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Sanju Samson to get nod ahead in Indian squad? Massive report comes on Gautam Gambhir's 'favourite'

icc-champions-trophy-2025-sanju-samson-to-get-nod-ahead-in-indian-squad-massive-report-comes-on-gautam-gambhir-s-favourite-

Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar is all set to meet captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir along with the BCCI officials to do the post martom of of the team's poor outing in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The India team faced a 3-1 thrashing at the hands of Australia in a five-match series. 
Ajit Agarkar will be meeting Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir on Sunday, the same day when the BCCI will be appointing Devajit Saikia as the new BCCI secretary. While this is one development, other claims the captain Rohit and Gambhir will be at the receiving end of some harsh questions by the BCCI.
The reports claimed that there will be informal and formal meetings among selectors and all the issues will be addressed. This will also include India's poor performances in the Tests last year. India faced a 3-0 whitewash at home against New Zealand and then suffered a loss to Australia. 
Another issue that will be addressed by the BCCI will be the poor form of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both the stalwarts of the Indian team failed badly in the entire Test season, and hence, discussions related to their future will be taking place as well among the board members and head coach. 
<h2>Ravichandran Ashwin's announcement of retirement during mid-tour will also be discussed - Reports</h2>
It is also learned that Ravichandran Ashwin's announcement of retirement during mid-tour will also be discussed, along with the rumours of things not good in the dressing room will be addressed as well. The source close to the developments told Hindustan Times: 
"The Australian tour, which immediately followed the 0-3 rout at home to New Zealand, was expected to decide the fate of many senior players. The 3-1 loss shut the door on India’s WTC final hopes, which is seen as a big setback. 
" Off-spinner R Ashwin’s mid-tour retirement and return home, murmurs of team discontent on tour, Rohit’s free fall in form that resulted in his sitting out the final Test at Sydney and the prolonged lean run of Virat Kohli has left Indian cricket faced with several searching questions. 
"All these are likely to be addressed in a number of formal and informal meetings among selectors and the administrators in the coming days." 
It remains to be seen what conclusion will come out once the BCCI officials meet. The next Test match of India will be played in June when the team will tour England. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-dynamic-opening-combinations-india-can-try-in-the-icc-champions-trophy-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">3 Dynamic Opening Combinations India can try in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a>

Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar is all set to meet captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir along with the BCCI officials to do the post martom of of the team's poor outing in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25