As India prepares for their opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy against Bangladesh, captain Rohit Sharma has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to adapt to any conditions presented in Dubai. With the city’s unpredictable weather patterns—ranging from overcast skies to evening dew—India’s squad is prepared with a diverse bowling arsenal capable of exploiting various pitch conditions.
“We have the bowling attack to combat overcast conditions. If there’s movement in the air, our bowlers can capitalize on that. And if we bat in such conditions, our batters know exactly how to adjust,” Rohit affirmed ahead of the crucial encounter.
𝙍𝙀𝘼𝘿𝙔 💪
— BCCI (@BCCI) February 19, 2025
Just one day away from #TeamIndia's opening fixture of #ChampionsTrophy 2025 ⏳ pic.twitter.com/Ri3Z93T28y
A Well-Balanced Indian XI Ready to Adapt
India’s squad boasts a mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talents, with a focus on multi-skilled cricketers. Rohit emphasized the importance of having players who contribute in multiple areas, making the team more dynamic and adaptable.
“All-rounders like Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, and Ravindra Jadeja provide immense flexibility to our squad. These players bring both batting depth and bowling options, which is crucial in a tournament like this,” Rohit explained.
Despite missing pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah due to injury, India still possesses a well-rounded attack, featuring both spin and pace options. Among them is wristspinner Varun Chakravarthy, who, despite having played just one ODI, has an outstanding List A record with 60 wickets at an average of 14.80.
“He doesn’t reveal all his variations in the nets, and that’s a good thing,” Rohit noted. “He has unique skills that he wants to showcase when it really matters.”
Mohammad Shami’s Role in the Pace Attack
One of the most significant boosts to India’s campaign is the return of veteran pacer Mohammad Shami. After undergoing ankle surgery in early 2024, Shami made his international comeback last month, featuring in India’s ODI series against England. Although he bowled limited overs in those matches, Rohit remains optimistic about his contribution in the Champions Trophy.
“For a bowler like Shami, who has delivered for us time and again, it’s all about regaining rhythm. Wickets weren’t our concern in the England series—our priority was to get him back into the groove,” Rohit stated.
India vs Bangladesh: A Crucial Opening Test
As India faces Bangladesh in their first game, they will be tested against a well-rounded Bangladeshi side that has steadily developed a strong seam-bowling tradition. Additionally, India’s batters must be prepared for Bangladesh’s spin challenge, particularly in conditions that might assist turn.
With experienced campaigners like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul leading the batting lineup, and a bowling attack blending spin and pace, India enters the tournament as one of the favorites. The team’s ability to adapt to different playing conditions will be a key factor in their success in Dubai and beyond.
As the Champions Trophy unfolds, all eyes will be on how India navigates its campaign, beginning with this high-stakes encounter against Bangladesh.
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Match Day minus one vibes 😁#TeamIndia | #ChampionsTrophy pic.twitter.com/ZRFC7gGZJh
— BCCI (@BCCI) February 19, 2025
Conclusion
India enters the ICC Champions Trophy with a versatile and balanced squad, ready to tackle any conditions in Dubai. With a strong mix of experienced players and dynamic all-rounders, the team has the depth needed to adapt to different challenges. As they face Bangladesh in their opening match, India’s ability to leverage their bowling attack and batting prowess will be crucial. With key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Mohammad Shami leading the charge, India looks well-equipped to make a strong tournament run.
