ICC Champions Trophy: As the last date of Squad submission for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is approaching, New Zealand have announced a formidable 15-men squad for the ICC event. Kane Williamson's return and the Captain-appointment of Santner are the main highlights of the announcement. 
This much-anticipated tournament marks the Champions Trophy’s return to the cricketing calendar after an eight-year hiatus. This time, the event is set to take place in Pakistan and the UAE. 
<h2>New Zealand Squad for ICC Champions Trophy Announced</h2>
The squad was announced at an event held at the Pullman Hotel in Auckland. Excitement centered on the inclusion of three promising fast bowlers: Ben Sears, Will O'Rourke, and Nathan Smith. This will be the first ICC senior event for all three players, adding a fresh dimension to the Blackcaps’ campaign.
Ben Sears, a 26-year-old pacer, has been selected despite being uncapped in ODIs. Sears has represented New Zealand in Tests and T20Is, but a knee injury kept him sidelined for much of the year. He recently returned to competitive cricket in the Super Smash.
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_6783396d8bd01.jpg" alt="">
Will O’Rourke, another promising fast bowler, has impressed in the early stages of his international career, particularly in Tests. Nathan Smith, known for his lower-order power-hitting and seam bowling, rounds out the trio of newcomers. Head coach Gary Stead lauded their inclusion, emphasizing the depth and talent they bring to the squad.
The squad also features a balance of youth and experience. Mitchell Santner will lead the team in his first ICC tournament as captain. Santner is supported by senior players Kane Williamson, Tom Latham, and Devon Conway. 
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Williamson and Conway, however, face tight scheduling challenges due to their commitments in the SA20 league. While Latham will take on wicketkeeping duties, Williamson’s vast experience will be crucial in anchoring the batting lineup.
New Zealand’s bowling unit looks formidable, with seasoned pacers Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson providing stability. Ferguson, however, will miss the preparatory tri-series in Pakistan due to his participation in the ILT20 playoffs. Jacob Duffy has been named as a reserve player in case Ferguson’s availability becomes an issue. The spin department is equally well-stocked, featuring Santner alongside all-rounders Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra.
<h3>New Zealand Squad</h3>
<section class="cb-nws-dtl-itms" itemprop="articleBody">
Mitchell Santner (C), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young
</section>
The Blackcaps famously defeated India in Nairobi in 2000 to win the inaugural Champions Trophy, then called the ICC KnockOut Trophy. More recently, they have consistently performed in global events, reaching the semi-finals in four of their last five ICC tournaments.
New Zealand is grouped in Group A alongside hosts Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. Their campaign begins with the tournament opener against Pakistan in Karachi on February 19. Only the top two teams from each group will progress to the semi-finals, making every game crucial. 
The Blackcaps’ support staff includes batting coach Luke Ronchi, bowling coach Jacob Oram, and spin coach Rangana Herath, who brings valuable subcontinental expertise. As the countdown to February begins, the team looks to build momentum and deliver a performance worthy of their reputation as one of the world’s most consistent cricketing nations.
<h3>Tri-Series Between Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa</h3>
The road to the Champions Trophy begins with a tri-series involving Pakistan and South Africa, starting on February 8. This series will serve as a vital tune-up for the team, with matches against Pakistan and South Africa on February 8 and February 10, respectively, followed by a warm-up game against Afghanistan on February 16. 
Head coach Gary Stead stressed the importance of these games, given the tournament’s compact format. “The Champions Trophy requires teams to hit the ground running, and our preparations in the tri-series will be critical,” he said.
Stead expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to rise to the occasion. “We’re fortunate to have a mix of players with significant international and tournament experience. It’s a great opportunity for the newcomers to showcase their skills on the global stage,” he added.
READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-cricket-champions-trophy-2025-schedule-teams-fixtures-full-squads-time-table/">ICC Cricket Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule, Teams, Fixtures, Full Squads, &amp; Time Table</a>

New Zealand Squad For ICC Champions Trophy 2025

New Zealand announced a balanced 15-member squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, featuring fresh pacers Sears, O'Rourke, and Smith. Mitchell Santner leads, supported by seasoned players like Kane Williamson and Tom Latham.

New Zealand's 2025 Champions Trophy squad blends youth and experience, with Mitchell Santner captaining and exciting newcomers Sears, O'Rourke, and Smith.

New Zealand Squad for ICC Champions Trophy Announced; Williamson Returns as Santner Set to Lead!

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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

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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

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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>
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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?

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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'

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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

Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir all set to be questioned by BCCI after debacle in Australia

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In what has been the latest development as per the reports in India Today, it is learned that there is no certainty over the place of KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The Indian squad for the tournament is all set to be announced next week. 
The reports claimed that KL Rahul might not make it into the Indian squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This is because his batting has been under the radar, especially after the poor innings that he played in the final of the ICC World Cup 2023 against Australia, which the Indian team lost. 
KL Rahul was recently dropped from the Indian ODI XI during the series against Sri Lanka. As per the reports, it is learned that Rishabh Pant will be the first-choice keeper-batter in the team, while Sanju Samson might get the nod as the second keeper in the team. 
<h2>Ravindra Jadeja hasn't impressed the BCCI selectors with his efforts with the bat and ball in the white-ball cricket. </h2>
On the other hand, Ravindra Jadeja hasn't impressed the BCCI selectors with his efforts with the bat and ball in the white-ball cricket. Those in charge feel that Axar Patel is much more effective than Jadeja as the latter's batting hasn't been good since the last few times. 
Coming to Mohammed Shami, there is no clarity over the fitness of a fast bowler as of yet. However, if unfit, he won't be rushed into the team. He bowled 16 overs in the two games that be played in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25 and if he is deemed fit, he might be there. 
Shami has been out of action for a while. If the fast bowler achieves full fitness and will be there for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. He played a huge role for the team in the ICC World Cup 2023 and would want to continue the same form in the upcoming tournament as well. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-s-squad-for-the-icc-champions-trophy-2025-finalised-/">India's squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 finalised</a>
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be played in Pakistan and India will be playing their games in Dubai. The Rohit Sharma-led side will play their first game against Bangladesh on 20th February.

In what has been the latest development as per the reports in India Today, it is learned that there is no certainty over the place of KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami likely to be dropped from India squad

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The Indian Cricket Team suffered a humiliating 1-3 series defeat in the five-match 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus the Aussies and this defeat has made them suffer a huge loss. Not only did this series defeat cost the Rohit Sharma-led team the chance to qualify for the WTC Final, it also led them dropping down to the third position in the recently updated ICC Test-Team Rankings. The Men in Blue had qualified for two successive WTC Finals in 2021 &amp; 2023 but Rohit Sharma &amp; CO failed to qualify this time around, suffering embarrassing defeats versus New Zealand (NZ) &amp; Australia (AUS) in the bilateral Test-Series. 
<h2>Australia lead the ICC Test-Team Rankings </h2>
Talking about the Test Team Rankings, the Mighty Australians are sitting at the pole position with 126 rating points next to their name. On the other hand, after defeating the Shan Masood-led Pakistan in the two-match Test-Series, the South Africans have secured the second spot of the rankings with 112 rating points to their name. 
The Indian Team are sitting at the third position with 109 rating points after having a poor WTC Test-Cycle. Let us tell you that South Africa (RSA) and Australia (AUS) have successfully qualified for the 2023-25 WTC Final which will be taking place at the iconic Lord's Cricket Stadium and this fascinating contest will be played in June of this year.
Before competing in the two-match Test-Series versus the Shaheens, the Temba Bavuma-led South Africa were at the third position in the Test Team Rankings. But, Team India's 1-3 defeat versus the Kangaroos and then their easy 2-0 win over the Green Shirts helped them to snatch the 2nd spot of the rankings away from the Indian Team. 
Talking about other teams, the fifth spot of the rankings is occupied by England (ENG) who have 106 Rating Points to their name and New Zealand (NZ) and the others are quite far away from the top-5 ranks. Fierce-Rivals of India, Pakistan are at the seventh position. 
<h2>Team India have failed to qualify for the WTC Final for the very 1st time</h2>
When the first even World Test Championship (WTC) final was played in 2021, Team India had locked horns versus the Kane Williamson-led New Zealand (NZ). However, much to dismay of the Indian fans, the Virat Kohli-led team had to face an embarrassing defeat as the Kiwis secured a comfortable eight-wicket win and lifted the WTC Test-Mace for the very first time. 
The Men in Blue then qualified for then qualified for yet another WTC Final in 2023 where they faced the Mighty Aussies but even in that game, they had to suffer a defeat as the Pat Cummins-led team won by a margin of 209 runs. This time around, it's going to be the first time ever in the history of the competition that a Final will be played without the participation of the Indian Team.
<h2>Updated ICC Test-Team Rankings</h2>
<table class="ds-w-full ds-table ds-table-md ds-table-auto" style="width: 100.732%;">
<thead class="ds-bg-fill-content-alternate ds-text-left">
<tr class="">
<th class="ds-min-w-max" style="width: 20%;">Position</th>
<th class="ds-min-w-max" style="width: 28.1356%;">Team</th>
<th class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 20.339%;">Matches</th>
<th class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.5932%;">Points</th>
<th class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.9322%;">Rating</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody class="">
<tr class="">
<td class="ds-min-w-max" style="width: 20%;">1</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-flex ds-items-center ds-gap-1" style="width: 28.1356%;">Australia</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 20.339%;">36</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.5932%;">4531</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.9322%;">126</td>
</tr>
<tr class="">
<td class="ds-min-w-max" style="width: 20%;">2</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-flex ds-items-center ds-gap-1" style="width: 28.1356%;">India</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 20.339%;">39</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.5932%;">4248</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.9322%;">109</td>
</tr>
<tr class="">
<td class="ds-min-w-max" style="width: 20%;">3</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-flex ds-items-center ds-gap-1" style="width: 28.1356%;">South Africa</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 20.339%;">27</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.5932%;">2932</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.9322%;">109</td>
</tr>
<tr class="">
<td class="ds-min-w-max" style="width: 20%;">4</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-flex ds-items-center ds-gap-1" style="width: 28.1356%;">England</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 20.339%;">46</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.5932%;">4815</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.9322%;">105</td>
</tr>
<tr class="">
<td class="ds-min-w-max" style="width: 20%;">5</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-flex ds-items-center ds-gap-1" style="width: 28.1356%;">New Zealand</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 20.339%;">33</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.5932%;">3216</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.9322%;">97</td>
</tr>
<tr class="">
<td class="ds-min-w-max" style="width: 20%;">6</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-flex ds-items-center ds-gap-1" style="width: 28.1356%;">Sri Lanka</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 20.339%;">25</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.5932%;">2271</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.9322%;">91</td>
</tr>
<tr class="">
<td class="ds-min-w-max" style="width: 20%;">7</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-flex ds-items-center ds-gap-1" style="width: 28.1356%;">Pakistan</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 20.339%;">27</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.5932%;">2225</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.9322%;">82</td>
</tr>
<tr class="">
<td class="ds-min-w-max" style="width: 20%;">8</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-flex ds-items-center ds-gap-1" style="width: 28.1356%;">West Indies</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 20.339%;">29</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.5932%;">2184</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.9322%;">75</td>
</tr>
<tr class="">
<td class="ds-min-w-max" style="width: 20%;">9</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-flex ds-items-center ds-gap-1" style="width: 28.1356%;">Bangladesh</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 20.339%;">29</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.5932%;">1884</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.9322%;">65</td>
</tr>
<tr class="">
<td class="ds-min-w-max" style="width: 20%;">10</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-flex ds-items-center ds-gap-1" style="width: 28.1356%;">Ireland</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 20.339%;">5</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.5932%;">131</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.9322%;">26</td>
</tr>
<tr class="">
<td class="ds-min-w-max" style="width: 20%;">11</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-flex ds-items-center ds-gap-1" style="width: 28.1356%;">Afghanistan</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 20.339%;">6</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.5932%;">112</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.9322%;">19</td>
</tr>
<tr class="">
<td class="ds-min-w-max" style="width: 20%;">12</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-flex ds-items-center ds-gap-1" style="width: 28.1356%;">Zimbabwe</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 20.339%;">6</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.5932%;">0</td>
<td class="ds-min-w-max ds-text-right" style="width: 15.9322%;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

The ICC has released it's latest updated Test Team Rankings and Team India has suffered a setback following their defeat in the BGT series. South Africa have made an advancement in the rankings

ICC Test Rankings: India face a setback in the rankings after the defeat in BGT, Australia & South Africa make advancements

icc-test-rankings-india-face-a-setback-in-the-rankings-after-the-defeat-in-bgt-australia-south-africa-make-advancements

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), as per the reports in News 18, has finalised the squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The governing body soon will be making the official announcement as the deadline for the squad announcement is around the corner. 
As per the reports, it is learned that Rohit Sharma will be captaining the India team in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The senior batter will be opening the innings for the team in the tournament along with Shubman Gill, who of late has been India's best batter in the ODIs. 
Along with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal will be the third opener for the Indian team in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The left-hander is yet to make his debut for the team in the ODIs, but having been extremely successful in Tests and T20Is, he is likely to ace this format. 
The middle-order batters for India will see Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer. The duo were the backbone of the team in the ICC World Cup 2023 and were one of the main reasons behind the team reaching the final. They would be keen to emulate the same this time around as well and help a team win. 
India will be entering the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with two keepers in the team. KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant will be performing the role for the team in the tournament. The two will be fighting for a place in the XI and it remains to be seen who among them will make it. 
The likes of Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel will be the three all-rounders in the Indian side for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Along with Jadeja and Axar, Kuldeep Yadav will be the third spinner in the team for the tournament. 
India also be going with four seamers in the team for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Jasprit Bumrah will be leading the attack, while Mohammed Shami will be making a comeback after injury. Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh will be the other two seamers in the team. 
<h2>India squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 </h2>
Here's the India squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 
Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/mohammed-shami-to-miss-the-icc-champions-trophy-2025-pacer-provides-a-massive-fitness-update-/">Mohammed Shami to miss the ICC Champions Trophy 2025? Pacer provides a massive fitness update</a>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), as per the reports in News 18, has finalised the squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

India's squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 finalised

india-s-squad-for-the-icc-champions-trophy-2025-finalised-

Former England player Michael Vaughan picked his combined playing XI from the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. What caught the attention of many was the cricketer-turned-commentator didn't name Nitish Kumar Reddy, who set the stage on fire in the series. 
Nitish Kumar Reddy was the shinning light for India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. He made his debut in the first game at Perth and showed great promise and went on to slam ton in 4th Test in Melbourne. He ended the series with 298 runs with the bat and also went on to pick 5 wickets.
Michael Vaughan went on to pick five Indian players in his combined XI. Yashasvi Jaiswal will be opening the innings for the team along with the young Australian batter Sam Konstas. Both the batters were exceptional with the bat in the series and played a vital role for their teams. 
India batter KL Rahul, who opened the innings for India, will be batting at No.3 in Michael Vaughan's innings. Along with him, Steve Smith has been named at No.4 as the Australia batter returned to form and slammed two centuries in the series. 
Travis Head, who was the leading run-getter in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, will be batting at No.5. The batter slammed over 500 runs in the series and was one of the main reasons why Australia won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 by the margin of 3-1. 
India duo of Rishabh Pant, who will be keeping the innings, and Ravindra Jadeja will be two players who will form the lower order in the series. The duo did a decent job for India with the bat and were the main reasons why the team fought hard in the series. 
The pacer battery picked by Michael Vaughan in his combined Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 included the Australia pace trio of Pat Cummins, Scott Boland and Mitchell Starc. Also, Jasprit Bumrah features in the team picked by the former England cricketer. 
<h2>Michael Vaughan picks his combined XI from the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 </h2>
Here's the Michael Vaughan picks his combined XI from the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 
Sam Konstas, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Rishabh Pant (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Jasprit Bumrah, Scott Boland
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/-youngster-will-maintain-a-batting-average-of-25-30-virat-kohli-asked-to-leave-team-india-/#google_vignette">"Youngster will maintain a batting average of 25-30"- Virat Kohli asked to leave Team India</a>

Former England player Michael Vaughan picked his combined playing XI from the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.