ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Will Washington Sundar get a game in the India playing XI?

As the 2025 edition of the ICC Champions Trophy draws closer, excitement is building for the ninth installment of the prestigious ODI tournament, which is set to begin on Wednesday, February 19. In the lead-up to the event, several commentators and former cricketers have been sharing their predictions for the best XIs of various teams, and former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar has recently joined the trend by naming his preferred India playing XI. Bangar's selections were in line with many fans' expectations, with the top three batters of the Indian lineup being vice-captain Shubman Gill, skipper Rohit Sharma, and ace batter Virat Kohli. Shubman Gill, who had been in excellent form during the recently concluded ODI series against England, was placed in the top order, alongside the ever-reliable Rohit Sharma, who made a strong comeback with a brilliant century in the second game of the series. 

Virat Kohli, who also found form in the final match of the series with a solid half-century, was another obvious pick for Bangar’s top three. These players have been the backbone of India’s batting for quite some time, and their inclusion in the lineup reflects their consistency and ability to perform on big occasions. As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on how these key players perform under the high-pressure conditions of the Champions Trophy.

Moving to the middle order, Sanjay Bangar selected Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, and Hardik Pandya for his preferred India playing 11 for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Iyer, who made a strong comeback into the national team after consistent performances in the domestic circuit, was chosen for his solid batting technique and ability to anchor the innings. KL Rahul was picked over Rishabh Pant, despite India’s focus on a left-right combination in the middle order. Rahul's stability and adaptability in pressure situations made him the preferred option.

In the all-rounder category, Bangar opted for Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar as the spin-bowling all-rounders. Interestingly, Sundar was picked ahead of Axar Patel, despite Axar’s additional utility with the bat. While Patel has been an important member of the team, Sundar's ability to offer control in the middle overs and his sharp spin were the deciding factors for Bangar. Sundar, however, had limited opportunities in the recent eight-match white-ball series against England, playing just three games. 

For the bowling attack, Sanjay Bangar opted for the experienced Kuldeep Yadav as the lead spinner in his preferred XI for the 2025 Champions Trophy. Kuldeep, known for his deceptive wrist spin and ability to take wickets in the middle overs, has been a key figure in India's spin department for several years. His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations makes him a vital asset to India’s bowling attack. As expected, Mohammed Shami was also included in the lineup. Shami, who has been one of India’s most reliable fast bowlers, brings both experience and skill to the side. Shami missed the T20 World Cup 2024 due to an ankle injury he sustained after the 2023 World Cup. However, after a gradual recovery, Shami was slowly reintroduced into the team during the limited-overs series against England, proving his readiness to return to the fold.

Bangar also chose left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh to complete the bowling attack. Arshdeep has significantly improved since his international debut and has become an integral part of India’s bowling lineup, especially in the death overs. His ability to swing the ball and his calmness under pressure have made him a valuable addition to the team. With Kuldeep’s spin, Shami’s pace, and Arshdeep’s left-arm swing, India’s bowling attack looks well-balanced and capable of taking on the challenges of the Champions Trophy.

India finds themselves in Group A of the 2025 Champions Trophy, alongside Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. All of India’s group-stage matches will be played at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, a venue known for its vibrant atmosphere and challenging conditions. As one of the most successful teams in cricketing history, India will be eager to showcase their strength and rise to the occasion, proving once again why they are considered one of the most formidable forces in the ODI format.

With a well-balanced squad featuring experienced players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill, along with a strong bowling attack led by Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav, India will look to dominate their group. The challenges posed by their opponents—Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh—will require the team to stay focused and execute their plans effectively. India's consistent performance in ICC tournaments and their ability to handle pressure will be key factors in their pursuit of success in the 2025 Champions Trophy. With all their matches in Dubai, India will also have the opportunity to adapt to the conditions and make the most of their strengths, aiming to make a deep run in the tournament and add another title to their illustrious legacy.

Sanjay Bangar's India playing XI for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

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