One of the primary reasons India is considered a strong contender for the forthcoming ICC Champions Trophy is the extensive experience possessed by their squad of 15 players. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been integral to the team for a significant duration, while Ravindra Jadeja is not far behind in terms of tenure. Hardik Pandya is entering his ninth year in international cricket, and Rishabh Pant is in his eighth. Although India will be without Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami has been part of the team since 2012. The majority of this squad has encountered high-pressure situations previously, equipping them to handle any challenges that may arise during the tournament.

As the Champions Trophy is set to commence in Karachi on Wednesday, the Indian team participated in a photoshoot in Dubai. During their journey to the studio, Rohit and Jadeja shared a light-hearted conversation in the car, reminiscing about the numerous ICC events and photoshoots they have attended together. The depth of experience within this squad is remarkable, as Rohit noted that this marks his 17th media day.

"This is my 17th appearance," Rohit informed Jadeja regarding his total media day experiences. "I have participated in nine T20 World Cups, three 50-over World Cups, which totals 12; plus two Champions Trophies, bringing it to 14. Additionally, there are two World Test Championships, making it 17."

This statement is indeed accurate. Rohit made his debut in ICC events during the 2007 T20 World Cup in South Africa and has since participated in every edition of the 20-over tournament—2009, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2021, 2022, and 2024. Furthermore, he has been involved in India's 50-over World Cup campaigns in 2015, 2019, and 2023, although he was not part of the 2011 squad. The 2013 Champions Trophy marked a pivotal moment in Rohit's career, as he was elevated to the position of India's full-time opener, leading to significant achievements thereafter. Four years later, he continued to perform admirably in the 2017 Champions Trophy, despite India falling short against Pakistan in the final at The Oval.

As for Jadeja, the all-rounder isn't too far behind. Barring the 2007, 2012 and 2022 editions of the T20 World Cup, Jadeja has been part of India's highs and lows over the last decade and a half.

Gill silenced

The video shared by the BCCI also featured a dialogue between Jadeja and Shubman Gill, during which the experienced player inquired about the younger player's appearances in media events. Although Gill, who made his debut for India in 2019, is still catching up to the seasoned players, he has participated in five ICC tournaments.

"I played in the 2023 World Cup, was part of the 2024 edition, and this marks my third. Oh, and I’ve also been in two WTC finals. So that totals five," he stated, prompting Jadeja to remind him of the experience gap. "I have over 15. Do you know how many Rohit has? Just 9 T20 World Cups. Virat could potentially have more," he remarked. Gill found himself at a loss for words.

This wealth of experience will be advantageous for India as they commence their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign against Bangladesh in Dubai on Thursday.

Read Also: BCCI Revises Champions Trophy Travel Policy; Permits Indian Players' Families to Attend One Match in Dubai

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