The starting lineup for India’s Champions Trophy 2025 opener against Bangladesh is set to be announced by former opener Aakash Chopra on Thursday, February 20, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai. He believed that if Rohit Sharma were making the ultimate decision, Kuldeep Yadav would be given a chance in the starting lineup.
On Wednesday, February 19, Pakistan will play New Zealand in Karachi in the opening match of the ninth Champions Trophy. India’s matches against Bangladesh (February 20), Pakistan (February 23), and New Zealand (March 2) will take place in Dubai.
Against Bangladesh, Chopra selected KL Rahul as India’s wicketkeeper rather than Rishabh Pant. In the meanwhile, if captain Rohit makes the decision, he believes Kuldeep would start in the starting lineup before Varun Chakravarthy. The cricket player-turned-commentator believed that if head coach Gautam Gambhir had greater influence over the team’s decision, Chakaravarthy would be chosen before Kuldeep.
What may India’s starting lineup be on the 20th? The skipper and vice-captain, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, will open. No questions should be raised regarding No. 3 because run-machine (Virat) Kohli will be present. Speaking on his official YouTube channel, Chopra stated that Shreyas Iyer must be present at number four.
“I see Rahul at number six and Hardik Pandya at number seven, with Axar Patel batting at number five.” Then you see Ravindra Jadeja at number eight. I see Kuldeep playing if Rohit Sharma is fielding all of the calls. However, Varun Chakravarthy might have a chance first if Gautam is given more precedence because I’m not sure of the dynamics, but I’ll vote for Kuldeep Yadav,” he noted.
Arshdeep Singh will be on my squad at all times: Aakash Chopra
In addition, Aakash Chopra supported Arshdeep Singh’s inclusion in the starting lineup. Mohammed Shami ought to be the front-runner to be Arshdeep’s new-ball partner, according to the former. Young Harshit Rana, though, might get a chance if the Bengal seamer doesn’t appear to be in excellent rhythm.
“I shall have Arshdeep Singh on my team at all times. In contrast, Harshit Rana may be playing because he is not bowling effectively with the new ball but is contributing to the team in the middle and end overs. If Mohammed Shami is looking great, then Mohammed Shami,” Chopra said.
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