Champions Trophy 2025: Team India’s journey in the Champions Trophy 2025 has been a display of consistency, resilience, and remarkable performances. The team has managed to balance a sensational batting lineup with a formidable spin attack, making them a serious contender for the trophy.
Let’s take a closer look at the standout performers who have made India’s campaign so impressive.
Shubman Gill
India’s “Prince”, Gill has been a gem of India’s batting lineup. His century against Bangladesh was a standout moment, marking him as one of the fastest to 2,000 ODI runs in just 38 innings. His consistency has been invaluable, with key contributions against Pakistan and a solid performance in chases.
However, his vulnerability to disciplined pace was evident when he was dismissed early against New Zealand, falling victim to Matt Henry’s sharp delivery. Against Australia, he will likely face the fiery pace of Australian bowling line-up, so his ability to anchor the innings and build partnerships will be crucial.
Virat Kohli
The “King” himself with his wealth of experience and batting class, continues to be one of the most reliable figures in the Indian batting order. He marked a significant milestone with his 100 against Pakistan, adding another chapter to his legendary career. However, Kohli’s low score of 11 against New Zealand highlighted his vulnerability to early movement, a weakness that has been exploited by disciplined fast bowling.
The upcoming clash against Australia will be particularly intriguing. This semi-final will give him a chance to redeem himself after India’s loss to Australia in the 2023 World Cup final. The conditions in Dubai, however, are likely to favor his technique, which makes him even more dangerous.
Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Meet The Top 4 Semi-Finalists – Pros And Cons Of Each Team
Varun Chakravarthy
The “Mystery Bowler” Varun Chakravarthy has been India’s secret weapon in the tournament. His 5-wicket haul against New Zealand in the group stage was a testament to his skill and adaptability. His mystery spin, especially his deadly googly, proved challenging for New Zealand’s top order and showed just how dangerous he can be on turning pitches like those in Dubai.
Australia’s middle order, particularly players like Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell, has struggled against quality spinners, and Chakravarthy will be licking his lips at the prospect of facing them in the semi-finals. His ability to maintain pressure and turn the game around in the middle overs has been invaluable for India.
Rohit Sharma
As a captain of the Indian Team, Rohit has been a calm and steadying influence on the team, leading by example. His aggressive intent at the top of the order has set the tone for India in several games, though he has occasionally been prone to rash dismissals, such as his pull-shot dismissal against New Zealand. The Australian pace attack will certainly look to target this weakness, but Rohit’s leadership has been key to India’s strong performance, especially in rectifying mistakes quickly.
Despite facing a tough record in tosses (India has lost 13 consecutive ODI tosses), Rohit’s captaincy has been spot-on, making crucial decisions and adjustments during critical moments in the game. His leadership will be vital in ensuring India stays on track for the title.
Kuldeep Yadav
The last on this list is Kuldeep Yadav. He has been a crucial part of India’s spin attack in the tournament. Alongside Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep has controlled the game with his wrist-spin, providing key wickets and keeping the opposition’s run rate in check. His economical spells and ability to take key wickets, like Daryl Mitchell’s against New Zealand, have highlighted his value.
Australia has shown an aggressive intent in the middle overs, as seen in their 109/1 in 12.5 overs against Afghanistan before rain interrupted play. But Kuldeep thrives in the spin-friendly conditions of Dubai, making him a key player in India’s semi-final clash against Australia. His ability to control the game in the middle overs will be crucial in slowing down Australia’s batting juggernaut.
