Champions Trophy 2025: Squad to Be Picked After Vijay Hazare Final; Kuldeep Under Spotlight

January 12 was the last date on which teams had to announce their squads for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. Of the 12 nations, six have already made their squad announcements, but India and Pakistan have not. The Indian Cricket Team has asked for an extension to delay their announcement. Barring a late change, India's squad is expected to be announced after the Vijay Hazare Trophy final, according to the latest update from PTI.

The BCCI selection committee is to meet on January 19, the day after the Vijay Hazare Trophy final, to discuss the squad. It is likely to announce the squad on the same day. Selection selectors have opted to wait till the tournament concludes to nominate the best possible 15-member squad for the Champions Trophy.

India Delays Squad Announcement to Ensure the Best Selection

After failing in the ODI World Cup, Team India is keen to field their best possible side for the ICC Champions Trophy. Therefore, the BCCI Selection Committee has decided to hold on announcing India’s squad till the Vijay Hazare Trophy finishes.

India’s current captain Rohit Sharma is likely to lead the team and this opportunity could win his last ICC trophy for India. In 2023 India reached the World Cup final but lost to Australia in Ahmedabad. Despite some patchy shows, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are likely to be a part of the squad for the Champions Trophy.

However, there are concerns about the fitness of two key bowlers, Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah. Bumrah left with a back injury in the 5th Test against Australia in Sydney, and Kuldeep has a groin injury. Their availability for the tournament is not certain.