Kl Rahul Out, Rishabh Pant In! DeepDasgupta picks the best play XI in India for Champions Trophy 2025
As a countdown of ICC Champions Trophy 2025 The debate over India’s best play XI continues to gain momentum. Former Indian cricketer and commentator Deep Dasgupta He shares his thoughts on the dilemma of choice, particularly addressing the role of wicketkeeping.
and KL was satisfied Dasgupta, who is likely to hit the fifth batter in the tournament, is not the best if the young Karnataka player does not appear in the top spot. Rishab pants You need to replace him with Play Xi.
Choice discussion: KL Rahul or Rishabh Pant?
KL Rahul is a key figure in the Indian intermediate order of ODI, often balancing the innings and his composed batting. However, during his recent ODI series against England, he hit multiple positions and achieved mixed results. His 40-off 29 ball in the third ODI gave a glimpse of his ability, but questions remain about his suitability for the High Pressure Champions Trophy.
Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant’s aggressive approach and explosive batting make him a strong contender for the role of wicketkeeper. Pants are known for their ability to take on bowlers in crunch situations. Dasgupta believes Pant’s game-changing ability with bats makes him a good fit for his team, especially when attacking batting is important.
Bowler leading the Indian accusations
Another important aspect of Dasgupta’s choice is the pace attack. and Jasprit Bumrah Excluded due to injury and liability becomes experienced Mohamed Shami And the young Arshdeep Singh We will lead the Indian bowling lineup. Shami forms a balanced pairing with a trick to choosing a wicket at key moments and an Arshdeep known for its ability to swing the ball and deliver it on death overs.
The spin attack is equally formidable, with Kuldeepyadav’s wrist spin and the overall abilities of axar patel and Washington Sundar providing depth and diversity. Their presence provides India with flexibility, especially on conditions that favor slow bowling.
Read again: Gautam Gambhir nominates India’s top choice wicketkeeper for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Deep Dasgupta’s Indian XI Champions Trophy 2025
Based on his current form and team balance, Dasgupta outlined his preferred India XI in the tournament.
Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill (vice captain), Virat Kohli, Shreiyas Ayer, Rishab Pants (wicketkeeper batter), Hardik Pandya, axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shammy, arsheep singhhh
The road to the Indian Champions Trophy
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to start on February 19th, with India facing Bangladesh in the opening match. India plays all games in Dubai (UAE) and makes conditions an important factor in team selection and strategy.
With India aiming for glory, it is important to get the teams pairing right. As squad finalization approaches, management must make tough decisions, particularly regarding the wicket keeping challenges between Rahul and Pants. Dasgupta’s insights provide a compelling discussion about Pant’s inclusion and add another layer to the ongoing discussion about India’s best XI for the Marquee event.