Ravichandran Ashwin Critiques India’ Champions Trophy Squad for 2025

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Ravichandran Ashwin Critiques India Champions Trophy Squad for 2025

India’s announcement of the Champions Trophy 2025 squad has sparked extensive discussions among cricket enthusiasts and experts. With several players excluded and others included, the selection process has faced both praise and criticism. Ravichandran Ashwin, the recently retired all-rounder, shared his thoughts on the squad and raised several concerns about its composition.

Ashwin expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of left-handed batters in the top seven. He noted that the team structure resembles the one employed during the 2023 ODI World Cup. The probable batting lineup includes Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as openers, both of whom are right-handed, followed by Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, and an all-rounder—likely Ravindra Jadeja or Axar Patel—occupying the lower middle order. Hardik Pandya slots in at No. 7. Ashwin observed that this lineup could be unbalanced due to the absence of left-handed batsmen.

The squad does include young talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant outside the playing XI, offering some flexibility. However, Ashwin suggested that Jaiswal might only get a chance to play if an injury occurs or under specific match conditions, such as facing England. He proposed an alternative strategy: opening with Jaiswal alongside Rohit Sharma, moving Shubman Gill to No. 3, and Virat Kohli to No. 4. This lineup could make space for Pant or Rahul at No. 5, but it would likely mean Shreyas Iyer would be sidelined. Ashwin emphasized the importance of utilizing Jaiswal’s current form and suggested India could benefit from this bold adjustment.

Another point of contention for Ashwin was the inclusion of multiple finger spinners in the squad. With Dubai’s playing conditions often influenced by dew, he questioned the practicality of fielding three spinners. He highlighted that selecting Washington Sundar as a No. 8 batter could weaken the overall batting lineup. Sundar’s inclusion would require the team to adjust its strategy, particularly if Kuldeep Yadav, a wrist spinner, occupies the No. 9 position. Ashwin pointed out that in such a scenario, India would be left with two pacers and three spinners, a combination that might not work well in high-pressure matches.

Ashwin suggested that including a player like Nitish Reddy could have been a better option. Reddy’s batting ability at No. 8 would allow the team to field Kuldeep at No. 9 while retaining the option of four fast bowlers and two spinners. He argued that this combination would provide better balance and adaptability, especially under dew-heavy conditions. While it remains unclear if Reddy was considered during the selection process, Ashwin’s analysis indicates the need for greater flexibility in squad planning.

Ashwin concluded by emphasizing the critical role of selectors in preparing for such major tournaments. With Kuldeep Yadav firmly established as the primary spinner, accommodating additional bowlers should have been done without compromising the team’s overall structure. Ashwin’s critique reflects a broader concern about India’s tendency to rely on rigid templates rather than adapting to evolving match conditions and player forms.

The Champions Trophy is a high-stakes event, and each squad decision carries significant weight. While the selected team has proven talent, the absence of key left-handed batters and the overreliance on spinners could limit India’s options in crucial matches. Ashwin’s insights serve as a reminder that strategic planning and adaptability are crucial for success in global tournaments.

As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on how India leverages its resources and navigates the challenges of competing against top teams in demanding conditions. Ashwin’s observations underline the importance of striking a balance between experience and flexibility, a balance that could be pivotal for India’s performance in the Champions Trophy 2025.

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