India has revealed its 15-member provisional squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, which begins next month. Injured stars Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav make notable returns to the squad. Bumrah, who missed the final Test against Australia due to a back injury, is seen as a key bowler. Kuldeep, sidelined since October with a groin issue, is also back in action.
Wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, who was excluded from the recent T20 series against England, has been included in the squad. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar and captain Rohit Sharma announced the team on Saturday. Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has performed well in Test and T20 formats, has earned his first ODI call-up and could debut during the competition.
Read more: Bumrah Denies Media Reports about his Bed Rest
View this post on Instagram
Fast bowler Mohammed Shami, returning after ankle surgery, also features in the squad. Agarkar emphasized Shami’s experience and recent T20 appearances to regain match fitness. Hardik Pandya, who last played an ODI in the 2023 Men’s World Cup, is the only pace-bowling all-rounder.
India, placed in Group A, will face Bangladesh in their first match on February 20. The squad includes three spin-bowling all-rounders—Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar. Along with Rohit Sharma as captain and Shubman Gill as vice-captain, India aims to begin the tournament on a strong note.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.