Champions Trophy 2025: India’s Biggest Challenges & Key Areas to Improve
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy starts on February 19. Team India faces a tough challenge in UAE conditions. India’s recent 3-match ODI series win over England offered good practice. However, it also showed important weaknesses that might affect their title chances.
India has struggled in ICC tournaments in Dubai. So, it’s important to address these concerns. Here are three key areas India must improve before the tournament begins.
1. Fast Bowling Concerns
India’s pace attack is under serious strain ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025. Jasprit Bumrah, the team’s top bowler, is dealing with a back spasm. So, he might miss the tournament. He has not resumed training, increasing concerns over his availability.
Without Bumrah, Mohammad Shami was expected to lead the attack. His weak showing against England makes people wonder about his fitness after a long injury break.
The other pace options are Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh. Mohammed Siraj is not in the 15-member squad. While Rana’s debut was promising, he must improve his economy rate. Arshdeep Singh hasn’t played many ODIs lately. So, he’ll focus on net practice to find his rhythm again.
If India can’t fix its fast-bowling problems, their chances in Dubai’s pace-friendly conditions may drop a lot.
2. Virat Kohli’s Struggles with Form
Virat Kohli has been India’s key player in ICC tournaments. However, he has faced inconsistent form over the past year.
In Test cricket, Kohli hasn’t scored many runs. His out for just 5 runs in the 2nd ODI against England raises more concerns. As India’s trusted No. 3 batter, his contributions are crucial, especially in high-pressure knockout matches.
For India to win the Champions Trophy 2025, Kohli needs to find his form. He must play strong innings in the middle order.
3. Wicket-Keeping Dilemma
The wicket-keeping position remains a major selection challenge for Team India.
KL Rahul, the team’s current wicket-keeper, has struggled in ODIs. In the first two games against England, he didn’t score much. This raised doubts about his consistency.
Rishabh Pant is an attacking option. However, he has a modest ODI average of 33.50. His inclusion might improve India’s batting balance, but his recent form is a worry.
India’s management needs to choose the right wicketkeeper. This decision is key for stable batting and reliable fielding.
As the Champions Trophy 2025 nears, India needs to fix its fast-bowling issues. They should think about Virat Kohli‘s form and the wicket-keeping issue. This could help their chances for the title. As competition grows, making smart early choices may be crucial for success in Dubai.
