India is gearing up for the ICC Champions Trophy with a mix of ambition and strategic planning as Rohit Sharma and the team management seek to reclaim the prestigious title after more than a decade. The upcoming three-match ODI series against England is set to play a pivotal role in finalizing the ideal playing XI, as India transitions back to 50-over cricket after limited exposure to the format over the past year.

Sanjay Bangar's Bold Choices

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has shared his insights on the ideal playing XI for the Champions Trophy, making some surprising exclusions and emphasizing a strategic balance.

Mohammed Shami Not an Instant Starter

Bangar suggested that Mohammed Shami, despite his experience, may not start in the XI if Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh are fit. He explained,

KL Rahul stated that if both Arshdeep and Bumrah are available, there would be a possibility of leaving out a player like Shami from the playing XI, suggesting that Shami may not be a guaranteed starter in such a scenario. Additionally, Rahul expressed his preference for taking up the wicketkeeping role over Rishabh Pant, positioning himself as the first-choice wicketkeeper in the team.

Bangar advocated for KL Rahul as the preferred wicketkeeper-batter, citing Pant's limited exposure to 50-over cricket in recent years.

The selection would involve choosing either Ravindra Jadeja or Axar Patel, along with one reserve wicketkeeper. In this scenario, Rishabh Pant could find himself on the bench, not making the starting lineup.Bowling Unit Strengthened

Bangar praised India's bowling attack for the Champions Trophy, particularly with the return of Shami and Kuldeep Yadav. He noted that their inclusion adds significant depth and variety to the squad.

He also emphasized the importance of giving Shami sufficient game time during the England series to ensure his readiness for the marquee event:

“The more games that he plays, the better he gets because that’s what history suggests about Mohammed Shami."

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

The ODI series against England will be a crucial testing ground for India's combinations, offering an opportunity to assess player form, fitness, and adaptability to 50-over cricket. With a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents, the team is looking to find the right balance in their lineup.

The Champions Trophy represents a significant milestone for Indian cricket, and the team’s preparations reflect their determination to bring the trophy back home.

Sanjay Bangar’s Prefered India 11

The team includes Rohit Sharma as captain, with Shubman Gill serving as vice-captain. The squad also features Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (who will be the wicketkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, and Arshdeep Singh.

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