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Ajit Agarkar Confirms Jasprit Bumrah’s Inclusion In India’s Champions Trophy Squad
By CricShots - Jan 18, 2025 5:55 pm
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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced India’s 15-member squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to begin on February 19 across Pakistan and the UAE. One of the most anticipated questions—Jasprit Bumrah’s availability—was answered as the star pacer was named in the roster, contingent on his fitness.

Jasprit Bumrah
Jasprit Bumrah seems to be in some discomfort

Bumrah had left the Sydney Test against Australia midway due to back spasms after a grueling series. Despite India losing the game and the series 3-1, Bumrah’s exceptional performance stood out. He bowled 151.2 overs across the series, claiming 32 wickets at an average of 13.06, earning him the Player of the Series award.

Recent media reports speculated that Bumrah was advised bed rest upon his return from Australia, raising concerns about his participation in the Champions Trophy. However, Bumrah dismissed these rumours as “fake” and is set to begin rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru.

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Chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed Bumrah’s inclusion, stating, “We are just hoping Bumrah will be fit. We will have a chat if he is not fit.” Harshit Rana has been named as Bumrah’s cover for the England series, but no backup has been included for the Champions Trophy squad.

ajit agarkar
Ajit Agarkar

India’s pace attack for the tournament includes Bumrah, Mohammed Shami—returning after surgery on his Achilles tendon—and left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh. The squad also features a balanced all-rounder lineup of Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, and Ravindra Jadeja, offering depth in both batting and bowling. Kuldeep Yadav is the lone specialist spinner.

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The batting unit has been bolstered by the inclusion of Yashasvi Jaiswal, alongside vice-captain Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer. With this mix of experience and emerging talent, India enters the Champions Trophy with a well-rounded squad and high expectations.