Published By: Sayan Guha

India’s Champions Trophy 2025 Glow-Up: Major Red Flags to Fix

Can India Overcome These Hurdles to Lift the Trophy?

India's cricketing history has been a mix of highs and lows, but the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy catastrophe has left supporters with more questions than answers. A 1-3 setback to Australia has focused attention on the Men in Blue as they transition from whites to blues, preparing for a busy white-ball schedule. Starting with a five-match T20I series and three ODIs against England, India's immediate focus is on the forthcoming Champions Trophy 2025, which spans from February 19 to March 9.

For several Indian players, this tournament may mark the end of their renowned careers, making it a high-stakes event. But, with their team announcement approaching, will India strike the proper balance? Will the selectors depend on seasoned veterans such as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, or will they look for young talent? While the Champions Trophy offers promise, it also raises fears that might undermine India's campaign. Let's look at three significant hurdles they'll face to win the coveted crown.

Dubai Vibes: Slay or nay?

India will play the Champions Trophy matches in Dubai, which has been India's nemesis in recent clashes. While India's overall record in Dubai is outstanding (10 victories out of 15), their performances in high-pressure games paint a different picture.

Take the disastrous 2021 T20 World Cup match against PAK, where India's top order fell on a slow field. Similar issues occurred at the 2022 Asia Cup, with the squad struggling to adjust to the sluggish, twisting circuits.

Although ODIs differ in speed and approach, the circumstances at the venue may still pose a test to India's batters. The way they modify their game plans, particularly against great spin assaults, will determine their destiny in Dubai.

Bumrah: The walking worry

Jasprit Bumrah's injury is undoubtedly India's most pressing problem. The pace spearhead, who had a back spasm during the fifth Test against Australia, is under review. According to reports, he may miss the upcoming ODI series against England, casting doubt on his availability for the Champions Trophy.

Bumrah's absence was noted strongly in the recent defeat to Australia, as his inability to bowl on Day 3 swung the game to the opposition's advantage. Bumrah's fitness has been a concern for the past two years, with him missing 24% of India's international matches since 2022.

With Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav also being checked for niggles, the selectors face a difficult challenge in putting together a totally fit bowling outfit. If Bumrah is not at his peak, India's death bowling—a typical Achilles heel—may fail under duress in crucial games.

Ro-Ko: Kings or cringe?

Regarding batting, two names rule Indian cricket: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. However, their recent performance has raised concerns.

Rohit, famed for his massive runs, has underperformed in Test cricket and failed to meet expectations in the ODI series against Sri Lanka last year. His inability to convert starts into game-winning shots has become a source of frustration for the squad.

On the other hand, Kohli showed signs of his former self by scoring a century against Australia in the Test series, but he failed to consistently produce. The once-reliable run machine has not been the game changer that India sorely requires.

Since January 2024, Kohli has averaged just 35.6 in ODIs, significantly below his stratospheric norms, while Rohit has achieved a paltry 28.3. India may struggle to score or chase large totals if these two do not step up in the Champions Trophy.