Delhi: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is going to start from February 19, in which a total of 8 teams including host Pakistan will participate. Except Pakistan and India, other 6 teams – England, New Zealand, South Africa, Australia, Afghanistan and Bangladesh have announced their respective teams. However, the Indian selection committee has not yet announced the national team, due to which questions are being raised as to why there is such a delay. Is the selection committee unable to select 15 players?
Former Indian cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu has taken on BCCI on social media platform X on this issue. Sidhu wrote, “This is the first time in the 25-year history of the ICC that India has delayed declaring the team for the Champions Trophy. The last date for team announcement was January 12, which has now passed. The selection committee and players are under pressure. Everyone is waiting to know when the team will be announced.”
Sidhu’s concern about Bumrah
Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah got injured in the Sydney Test against Australia, due to which his chances of playing in the Champions Trophy are less. This news has increased the concern among the selection committee and Indian cricket fans. Emphasizing the importance of Bumrah, Sidhu said, “Bumrah is a symbol of Indian cricket and his talent is respected all over the world. His injury has affected not only the team but also the expectations of the entire country.”
Sidhu also said, “Bumrah’s injury could be a major reason for the delay in the team announcement, but it is a matter of concern for the entire country.”
“25 years of ICC history — India’s Champions Trophy squad announcement delayed for the first time ever. The January 12 deadline passed, the selectors & teammates wait with bated breath, 1.5 billion hearts pray and hope for the best, all eyes on Jasprit Bumrah. His name alone… pic.twitter.com/WQn5P7kxeN
— Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) January 15, 2025
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