ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Aakash Chopra predicts IND playing XI for the India vs Bangladesh match

Former India opener Aakash Chopra has made his prediction for India’s playing XI for their opening match in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, where they will face Bangladesh on Thursday, February 20, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Chopra, known for his insightful cricket analysis, believes that India’s playing XI will be carefully chosen, keeping in mind the balance of the team and the conditions in Dubai. One of the notable predictions Chopra made is that Kuldeep Yadav, the wrist-spinner, could be included in the India playing XI for the match. Chopra speculated that if Rohit Sharma, the captain, has the final say in the selection, Kuldeep may find a place in the team. Kuldeep’s ability to turn the ball sharply and create pressure in the middle overs could be crucial, especially on a pitch where spin is expected to play a significant role. This would add an extra dimension to India’s bowling attack alongside their formidable fast bowlers.

Chopra’s prediction highlights the potential for a balanced lineup, with an emphasis on both spin and pace, depending on the conditions. Given that India has a strong squad with multiple spin options, including the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar, Kuldeep’s inclusion could add variety to the attack. As India looks to begin their Champions Trophy campaign with a strong performance, the selection of the final XI will be crucial in setting the tone for the tournament.

The 9th edition of the Champions Trophy is set to begin on Wednesday, February 19, with an exciting opening match between Pakistan and New Zealand in Karachi. The tournament will feature top teams from around the world, all vying for the prestigious title. India, one of the favorites in the competition, will be playing their group-stage matches in Dubai, where they are scheduled to face Bangladesh on February 20, Pakistan on February 23, and New Zealand on March 2.

India’s matches in Dubai are expected to draw significant attention, with the clash against Pakistan, in particular, being one of the most anticipated encounters of the tournament. This rivalry, known for its intense competition, will undoubtedly be a highlight for cricket fans globally. Additionally, India’s game against New Zealand on March 2 will be crucial as they look to secure their place in the knockout stages.

As the tournament progresses, teams will compete in a series of high-stakes matches, with the ultimate goal of lifting the Champions Trophy. India’s preparation and strong squad, combined with the competitive nature of the group, promise an exciting run in the tournament. With Dubai set to host some thrilling encounters, all eyes will be on how India performs in this prestigious event.

Aakash Chopra, the former India opener and current cricket commentator, has made his predictions regarding India's playing XI for their opening match against Bangladesh in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Chopra believes that KL Rahul will be chosen as India’s wicketkeeper for the game, ahead of Rishabh Pant. Rahul’s solid performances with the bat and his versatility behind the stumps make him the preferred option in Chopra’s eyes. Chopra also backed Kuldeep Yadav to feature in the India playing 11 ahead of Varun Chakravarthy, particularly if Rohit Sharma, the Indian captain, has the final say in team selection. Kuldeep’s experience and his ability to bowl with control in the middle overs could be crucial in Dubai’s conditions, where spin is expected to play a significant role.

However, Chopra also noted that if head coach Gautam Gambhir has more influence over team selection, Chakravarthy might get the nod ahead of Kuldeep. Chakravarthy, known for his mystery spin, brings a different dimension to the bowling attack, and Gambhir may prefer his unpredictability in a high-pressure tournament like the Champions Trophy. With these key decisions to be made, India’s final playing XI will be closely watched as they aim to start their campaign strong.

"What could be India's playing XI on the 20th? Shubman Gill with Rohit Sharma, the captain and vice-captain will open. There shouldn't be any question asked about No. 3 because run-machine (Virat) Kohli will be there. Shreyas Iyer has to be there at No. 4," former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra said while speaking on his official YouTube channel.

"I see Axar Patel batting at No. 5 and I am thinking Rahul at No. 6 and Hardik Pandya at No. 7. Then you are looking at Ravindra Jadeja at No. 8. If Rohit Sharma is taking all the calls, then I see Kuldeep playing. However, if Gautam enjoys greater preference because I don't know the dynamics, Varun Chakravarthy might get an opportunity first, but my vote will be for Kuldeep Yadav," he added. 

Aakash Chopra has also backed Arshdeep Singh to make it to India’s playing XI for their opening match in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 against Bangladesh. Chopra believes that Arshdeep, with his impressive bowling skills, should be a key part of the Indian bowling attack. He further stated that Mohammed Shami should be the frontrunner to partner Arshdeep with the new ball, given Shami’s experience and ability to swing the ball at the start of the innings.

However, Chopra also pointed out that if Shami is not in top form or doesn’t appear to be in great rhythm during the lead-up to the match, young fast bowler Harshit Rana could be given an opportunity. Rana, known for his pace and aggression, could be a viable option to step in as a fresh face in the attack, particularly if the team requires additional firepower with the new ball. This highlights the flexibility in India’s bowling options, where both seasoned bowlers like Shami and emerging talents like Arshdeep and Harshit have the potential to make an impact. With such a range of options, India has the ability to adapt and choose the best combination for the conditions in Dubai.

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Aakash Chopra picks India playing XI against Bangladesh

Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill (vc), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami.