Team India has made two major changes to its squad for the Champions Trophy. The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) announced on February 11 that Varun Chakravarthy has replaced Yashasvi Jaiswal, while Harshit Rana has been brought in for Jasprit Bumrah. These unexpected changes have sparked a lot of buzz among fans and experts alike.
Bumrah’s Exit – A Huge Setback for India – One of the biggest blows to Team India is the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who has been ruled out of the tournament due to injury. The star pacer suffered a lower back injury during the Sydney Test against Australia and hasn’t been able to return to action since. His absence weakens India’s fast bowling attack, raising concerns about the team’s balance in crucial matches.
Varun Chakravarthy In, Jaiswal Dropped – A Controversial Decision – Varun Chakravarthy, who recently got a chance in the ODI series against England, made his debut in the second match. Now, he has earned a spot in the Champions Trophy squad. However, the decision to drop Yashasvi Jaiswal has surprised many. Jaiswal made his ODI debut in the first match against England, but despite showing promise, he has now been excluded from the squad.
Harshit Rana Replaces Bumrah – A Big Opportunity – Young fast bowler Harshit Rana has been selected as Bumrah’s replacement. With Bumrah out due to injury, Rana’s selection seemed likely, but the decision to drop Jaiswal still remains a talking point. Many believe Jaiswal deserved more chances before being axed from the squad.
Standby Players – Jaiswal, Siraj, and Dube
Apart from the main squad, three players have been named as non-traveling reserves:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Mohammed Siraj
- Shivam Dube
These players will only join the team in Dubai if needed during the tournament.
Stronger Spin Attack, Weaker Pace Bowling – With Varun Chakravarthy coming in for Washington Sundar, India’s spin bowling unit looks solid. The squad now has three spin all-rounders:
- Axar Patel
- Washington Sundar
- Ravindra Jadeja
Additionally, India has two specialist spinners:
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Varun Chakravarthy
On the flip side, India’s pace attack looks shaky. Apart from Mohammed Shami, both Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana are relatively inexperienced at the highest level, which could be a challenge in pressure situations.
India’s Champions Trophy Fixtures – Matches in Dubai – The Champions Trophy, hosted by Pakistan, is set to begin on February 19. However, India will play all its matches in Dubai under a special agreement.
- February 20 – India vs Bangladesh
- February 23 – India vs Pakistan
- March 2 – India vs New Zealand
With these unexpected changes, India’s success in the tournament will largely depend on its spinners and middle-order batters. Will this squad be enough to bring home the trophy? Only time will tell!
