Who is India's back-up opener for ICC Champions Trophy 2025? Check details

Dinesh Karthik has shared his perspective on Yashasvi Jaiswal's prospects for India’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad, suggesting that while Jaiswal is an impressive talent, he may only serve as a backup opener for the tournament. Since his international debut last year, Jaiswal has shown remarkable growth in Tests and T20Is but has yet to break into the ODI setup. In Test cricket, Jaiswal has made a significant impact, averaging an impressive 68.53 from nine matches and boasting two double centuries. His performances in T20Is have also been notable, with a striking rate of 164.32 and an average of 36.15 from 23 games. Despite these achievements and the evident talent he possesses, which suggests he could become a key player for India in the 50-over format, Karthik believes that the current opening combination of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill will remain intact for the Champions Trophy.

Karthik argues that it is unlikely India will disrupt this established partnership for the upcoming tournament in Pakistan. Given Sharma and Gill's solid performances and the stability they provide at the top of the order, Jaiswal may have to wait for his opportunity in the ODI format. This view reflects the balance India seeks to maintain between nurturing emerging talent and relying on established players for crucial tournaments.

“Why? Rohit and Shubman are a very good combination. Yes, Jaiswal has a great opportunity to be the backup opener and will get his opportunity soon if Shubman doesn’t go as well as expected. And India has a very solid middle order as well," said former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik in a recent interview. 

Shubman Gill has recently been elevated to the role of vice-captain following Gautam Gambhir's appointment as head coach of the Indian cricket team. The Punjab batter secured this position ahead of prominent players such as KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya, becoming Rohit Sharma's deputy in ODIs. India’s cricket team is currently facing a challenging period, having lost the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka with a 0-2 deficit. With only three more 50-over matches remaining before the Champions Trophy, the team is under pressure to solidify their preparations. Given the limited number of games left, Dinesh Karthik has expressed the view that India would likely avoid making extensive changes to their batting line-up.

Karthik believes that with the Champions Trophy approaching, it is crucial for the team to focus on stability rather than experimentation. The need for a consistent and well-established batting order becomes even more important with the limited opportunities to fine-tune strategies before the tournament. As a result, India is expected to rely on their current lineup and key players to ensure they are in the best possible shape for the Champions Trophy. This approach reflects a strategic emphasis on maintaining cohesion and readiness rather than making significant adjustments at this crucial juncture.

“In the lead-up to the Champions Trophy, they are just going to be playing three more games. And I am pretty confident it’s going to be Rohit and Shubman opening for the Champions Trophy,” Karthik concluded.