The selectors could take a few brave calls for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Here, we take a look at the list of three surprising picks India could make for the ICC Champions Trophy.
It would not be a surprise if some names that were not in contention earlier came into the picture now. With an eye on the Champions Trophy, the management will also want some preparation for the future.
1) Nitish Kumar Reddy
Hardik Pandya will be the lead all-rounder for the side. Nitish Reddy is making strong waves and he is definitely a choice for the side. In fact, he could take up the fourth-seam option in the squad and the team could pick an extra spinner. Nitish will also serve as Hardik Pandya’s backup in the team. In the 2023 ODI World Cup, India’s balance changed when Hardik got injured. Hence, having Nitish will help the side.
2) Varun Chakravarthy could be a part of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Varun Chakravarthy is one of the surprising picks India could make for the ICC Champions Trophy. It needs to be noted that India’s games would be in the UAE. Varun could be very useful there. Gambhir brought him back for the T20I squad. It may not be a surprise if he is in the scheme of things for ODI’s, as well. Washington Sundar could miss out because of this.
3) Harshit Rana
Apart from Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami is the other hit-the-deck bowler for Team India. However, Shami is coming from an injury while Bumrah has workload issues. Hence, Harshit Rana could get a chance. Gautam Gambhir rates him highly and he is a future prospect at No.8 in the ODI format. Prasidh Krishna could also be a choice in this regard. However, he is also injury-prone.
