As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, India stand at a crucial juncture, poised to field a squad capable of making a lasting impact. Known for their stellar record in ICC tournaments, India have often been a dominant force in global cricket. Memories of the 2013 Champions Trophy triumph, where India lifted the trophy under MS Dhoni’s leadership, still resonate with fans, serving as a reminder?? of their potential on the big stage.

The upcoming edition of the tournament, to be hosted across Pakistan and the UAE, presents India with a golden opportunity to reclaim their place ??at the pinnacle of ODI cricket. With the sting of their near-miss at the 2017 Champions Trophy and 2023 ODI World Cup still fresh, this is a chance for redemption and a moment to reaffirm their status as one of the world’s cricketing powerhouses. The team’s performance will not only be a testament to their preparation but also a reflection of their hunger to achieve glory once again.

The wicketkeeper conundrum for India

The selection for the Indian squad, particularly for the wicketkeeper’s spot, has stirred considerable debate among fans and experts alike. The crux of the discussion revolves around three key players: Sanju Samson, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant. Each brings a unique set of skills and has a different impact on the team’s composition:

India’s strategy often involves balancing the batting lineup with players who can adapt to various positions. The choice of wicketkeeper significantly influences this balance, especially with the availability of versatile players like Hardik Pandya who can bat lower down the order.

While all three are competent, Rahul has shown remarkable improvement behind the stumps, particularly in the 2023 World Cup. But at the same time, Pant’s agility and Samson’s reliable glove work in T20s also come into the picture.

Also READ: Navjot Singh Sidhu picks India’s bow??ling lineup for the Champions Trophy 2025

Batting Impact: Here’s where the real debate lies

Rahul has? been an ODI stalwart, especially?? in the middle order, where he can anchor innings or accelerate as needed. His experience and performance in high-pressure games, like the 2023 World Cup, make him a prime candidate.

Pant is known for his explosive batting, providing the team with a dynamic left-handed option in the middle order. His return from ?inj??ury and performance during the T20 World Cup 2024 has been watched closely for his potential impact in ODIs.

Meanwhile, ?Samson has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in shorter formats, with an ability to score quickly and change game dynamics with big hi?ts. However, his consistency in ODIs has been less tested.

ODI stats and impact analysis

KL Rahul

• Matches: 77
• Runs: 2,851
• Average: 49.15
• Strike Rate: 87.56
• 50s/100s: 18/7

Impact: Rahul’s experience and ability to perform under pressure make him a go-to choice for stability in the middle order. His dual role as keeper and batter adds depth to the team.

Rishabh Pant

• Matches: 31
• Runs: 871
• Average: 33.50
• Strike Rate: 106.21
• 50s/100s: 5/1

Impact: Pant’s aggressive style can be a game-changer. His boundary percentage and strike rate reflect his ability to score quickly, adding an element of unpredictability to the batting lineup. However, his ODI consistency is under scrutiny.

Sanju Samson

• Matches: 16
• Runs: 510
• Average: 56.66
• Strike Rate: 99.60
• 50s/100s: 3/1

Impact: Samson’s recent T20I performances have put him in the limelight, but his ODI record, though promising, lacks the volume to conclusively gauge his impact. His selection would be based more on potential and current form. However, among the three batters, Samson has the best average in ODIs.

Who should be picked?

Given the data and current discussions, Rahul emerges as a likely first-choice due to his experience and consisten?t performances in ODIs. His selection ensures a solid and flexible batting order with the added advantage of wicketkeeping.

Pant should be included for his X-factor. His ability to change the game’s tempo with his left-handed batting is invaluable, particularly in the context of having a balanced lineup that can counter various bowling attacks.

Similarly, Samson could be a strategic pick as a backup, leveraging his form and potential to disrupt opposition plans. However, his selection might hinge on whether the team opts for another speciali??st keeper or trusts their existing options? for depth.

Also READ: Harsha Bhogle picks his India sq?uad for the Champions Trophy 2025; no place for Jasprit Bu??mrah

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KL Rahul, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter, has requested a break from the upcoming limited-overs series against England. This decision comes after a demanding cricketing schedule, particularly following his participation in the recently c??oncluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Reports confirm that while Rahul will skip the series starting on January 22, he remains available for selection for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to begin on February 19 in Dubai.

Reasons for the break

Rahul’s request for a break appears to be a strategic move aimed at preserving his fitness and form ahead of a crucial tournament. He was one of the standout performers during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, scoring 276 runs across ten innings, making him the third-highest run-scorer for India in the series. Despite ??his contributions, which included two fifties, India faced a disappointing 3-1 defeat in the series.

A BCCI source indicated that Rahul’s decision to opt out of the England series is more about rest than being dropped from the squad. “He has sought a break for the England series, but he will be available for selection for the Champions Trophy,” the source told PTI. This aligns with the selectors’ long-term plans, as Rahul is considered a vital player for India’s campaign in the Champions Trophy.

Also READ: Sunil Gava??skar names the next captain of ??Indian team after Rohit Sharma

There are also reports that Rahul’s wife and Bollywood actress Athiya Shetty is pregnant a??nd may give birth to a baby in the ??coming weeks.

Details of the England series

India’s home series against England consists of five T20 Internationals and three One Day Internationals (ODIs). The ODIs are particularly important as they represent India’s only ODI series before heading into the Champions Trophy.

The first T20I will take place in Kolkata on January 22, followed by ODIs from February 6 to 12. Rahul’s absence raises questions about India’s middle-order batting lineup, especially with strong competition from players like Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson, both of whom are also?? vying for sp??ots in the Champions Trophy squad.

Also R??EAD: Aakash Chopra picks his India squad for Champions Trophy 2025; no place for Suryakumar Yadav and Sanju Samson

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On Day 2 of the fifth and final Test between Australia and India at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Scott Boland’s masterful delivery dismantled India’s opener KL Rahul, provi?ding a much-needed breakthrough for the Australian ?side.

Scott Boland’s outstand delivery to KL Rahul

In the eighth over of India’s innings, Boland, the right-arm medium-fast bowler, unleashed a 132 km/h nip-backer on a fuller length, just outside off-stump. Rahul, attempting an ambitious drive, edged the ball onto his stumps, departing for 13 runs off 20 balls, which included two boundaries. The strategic brilliance of Boland’s adjustment, targeting the batters�???tendency to play off the back foot, was on full display, forcing Rahul to play forward and succumb to his precision.

Here is the video:

Scott Boland with a peach to get KL Rahul! #AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/Cu1qhVVvWQ

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 4, 2025

Also WATCH: ‘Oye Konstas�?�?Yashasv??i Jaiswal sledges Sam Konstas on Day? 2 of SCG Test

Consistent excellence: Boland’s four-wicket haul in first innings

Boland continued to assert his dominance throughout the match. The 35-year-old bowler claimed an impressive four wickets in India’s first innings and repeated the feat in the second. With the Indian side struggling at 141 for 6 a??t the end of Day 2, Boland remains a critical factor for Australia heading into Day 3. His relentless line and length, coupled with his ability to exploit conditions effectively, have left the Indian batting lineup reeling.

Boland’s impact in Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

Boland’s performance in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 has been nothing short of phenomenal. Despite playing only three of the five matches in the series, he has already claimed 19 wickets at an exceptional average of 14.42 and an economy rat??e of just 2.80. These figures make him the third-highest wicket-taker in the series so far, underscoring his immense value to the Australian bowling attack. His consistent ability to dismantle batting lineups has played a pivotal role in Australia’s competitive edge throughout the series.

Also WATCH: Jasprit Bumrah leaves SCG ground ami?d injury fears on? Day 2 of the 5th Test �?AUS vs IND

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The ongoing fourth Test between Australia and India at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has not only been a showcase of cricketing prowess but also a battleground of verbal exchanges, commonly known as sledging. On Day 2, a notable incident occurred between Australian spinner Nathan Lyon and Indian batter KL Rahul, which has since sparked discussions among cricket fans and analysts? alike.

Nathan Lyon welcomes KL Rahul with a banter

As Rahul stepped onto the field to bat at No. 3, having returned to this position after being demoted from his previous role as an opener, Lyon seized the moment to taunt him. In a video that quickly went viral on social media, Lyon was heard asking Rahul, “What did you do wrong to bat one down?” This remark was not just a casual comment; it was a pointed jab at the Indian batting order’s recent struggles and the decisions made by the Indian team management regarding player positions.

Despite the provocation, Rahul displayed commendable composure. Instead of reacting to Lyon’s jibe, he focused on his game, reflecting a maturity that has often been questioned in high-pressure situations. This incident followed another tense moment in the match involving Virat Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Konstas, highlighting the ch?arged atmosphere of t??he Test series.

Also WATCH: Pat Cummins knocks out KL Rahul with an unplayab??le delivery on Day 2 of the AUS vs IND Test

Here’s the video:

//twitter.com/sharmahu45/status/??1872488068302987646

Rohit Sharma’s continuous struggles

While Lyon’s taunt may have added spice to the match, it was Rohit Sharma‘s performance that continued to be a focal point of concern for Indian fans. The captain’s dismal form persisted as he was dismissed for just 3 runs, falling victim to a short ball from Pat Cummins that he misplayed into the air. This dismissal marked Cummins’ seventh wicket of Rohit in Test cricket, raising questions about Rohit’s ability to lead from the front during this crucial series.

At the end of Tea session, India found themselves in a precarious position at 51/2 after Rahul was also dismissed shortly before tea by another excellent delivery from Cummins. The pressure was mounting on India’s batting lineup as they faced a daunting target following Australia’s mammoth first-innings score of 474 runs.

The sledging and on-field banter are part and parcel of Test cricket, especially in an intense series like this one. However, they also reflect deeper issues within the teams. For India, the batting order has been under scrutiny, particularly with Rohit struggling to find form. The decisions made by team management regarding player positions have significant implications for ??team morale and performance.

Also WATCH: Steve Smith’s unluck?y dismissal after an outstanding century on Day 2 of the AUS vs IND 4th Test

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On Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australian skipper Pat Cummins delivered a stunning spell, showcasing his class and precision. He dismissed KL Rahul, one of India’s dependable batters, with an unplayable delivery that highlighted the bowler’s tactical brilliance. Cummins had already picked up an early wicket and was relentless in his pursuit of another breakthrough. Rahul, who scored on 24 off 42 balls, had shown some resilience but was undone by Cummins’ masterclass.

Pat Cummins’ magic delivery knocks out KL Rahul

Cummins’ delivery to dismiss Rahul was the epitome of seam bowling excellence. The ball was angled in, pitching on a good length on middle and off, and seamed away sharply to hit the top of off stump. The Australian skipper had set Rahul up beautifully over the course of the spell, targeting his pads with deliveries that hinted at lbw. This consistent probing planted doubt in Rahul’s mind, subtly influencing his positioning.

As ??a result, his front pad was fractionally more towards the leg side, leaving a narrow gap for the ball to sneak through. The delivery itself was near-perfect and left Rahul with no chance. It was a textbook e?xample of how planning, precision, and execution come together to produce a match-defining moment.

Here’s the video: 

ABSOLUTE SEED FROM CUMMINS! #AUSvIND | #DeliveredWithSpeed | @nbn_australia pic.twitter.com/zvzvkDyAnb

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 27, 2024

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Steve Smith breaks Sachin Tendulkar and Joe Root’s records en route to h?is 34nd Test century

Australia’s innings on Day 2:  Steve Smith’s century and sudden collapse

Australia resumed Day 2 at 311/6 with Steve Smith leading their charge. Smith showcased immense patience, converting his overnight score of 68 into a brilliant 140, combining with Cummins for a vital 100-run partnership for the seventh wicket. Cummins impressed with a gritty 49 before falling to Ravindra Jadeja. The lower order added crucial runs as Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon provided some resistance, but India’s bowlers, particularly Jasprit Bumrah (4/99) and Jadeja (3/78), wrapped up the innings effect?ively. Australia posted a formidable 474, leaving India with a challenging task to counter their dominance.

Early blows for India in the Boxing Day test match

Chasing Australia’s imposing total, India began their reply cautiously. However, skipper Rohit Sharma fell cheaply for 3, miscuing a pull shot off Cummins. Rahul tried to stabilize the innings with a composed 24 but was also dismissed by Cummins, leaving India at 51/2. Yashasvi Jaiswal showed promise with an unbeaten 29, while Virat Kohli remained at the crease on 1. India are currently trailin??g by over 400 runs, with the Australian bowlers, led by Cummins�?fiery spell, maintaining a firm grip on the match.

Also READ: AUS vs? IND: Here’s why Team India players are wearing black arm bands on Day 2 of the 4th Test against Australia

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The fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 will see Australia and India battling for supremacy at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Scheduled to begin on Thursday, December 26, this much-anticipated Boxing Day Test carries immense significance as the series hangs in balance at 1-1. Both teams are acutely aware of what’s at stake – the series lead and crucial points in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 standings. After three gripping matches, the stage is set for a contest that could determine the series’ fate and leave a lasting impression on their campaigns.

Australia vs India: Thrills and challenges

The series has been a rollercoaster of emotions and performances, showcasing the intense rivalry between the two cricketing powerhouses. India started on a high note, claiming a resounding 295-run victory in the first Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth. The win, achieved under the stand-in captaincy of Jasprit Bumrah, highlighted India’s dominance in all facets of the game. However, Australia were quick to respond. In the second Test at the Adelaide Oval, under lights and with the pink ball, the hosts delivered a commanding 10-wicket victory. Their bowlers dismantled India’s batting lineup, leveling the series emphatically.

The third Test in Brisbane seemed to be heading towards an Australian win as they posted a mammoth total of 445 in the first innings, thanks to centuries from Travis Head and Steve Smith. India’s batting faltered once again, but a combination of lower-order resistance and persistent rain?? thwarted Australia’s hopes. The rain-affected dra?w left the series tied, setting the stage for a high-stakes fourth Test at the MCG.

Also READ: AUS vs IND 2024: Melbourne Weather Forecast for the Boxing-Day Test | Australia v?s I??ndia

Strategic shift in India’s batting lineup: KL Rahul or Rohit Sharma as an opener?

India’s preparations for the Boxing Day Test include a major shuffle in their batting order. According to the multiple media reports, Rohit Sharma, one of India’s most successful openers in recent years, will potentially return to his preferred role at the top of the order. This decision might comes after his struggles in the middle order during the series. Despite managing only 152 runs at ?a poor average of 11.69 in seven matches this season, Rohit’s career as an opener remains stellar. He has amassed 2,685 runs in 64 innings as an opener, with nine centuries and eight fifties to his name. His ability to take on ??the new ball and dominate the powerplay could provide India the strong starts they need.

KL Rahul, who has been a consistent performer in this series with 235 runs at an average of 47.00, will move to the number three position. Rahul’s patient approach and solid technique make him an ideal candidate to anchor the innings after the loss of an early wicket. His promotion strengthens the middle order and offers flexibility to the Indian lineup in case of quick dismissals. This strategic change aim to counter Australia’s formidable bowling attack, led by Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, and establish a solid foundation for In?dia’s innings.

Breaking – Rohit Sharma to open – KL to play at 3 in MCG

— रोहि�?जुगलान Rohit Juglan (@rohitjuglan) December 25, 2024

The significance of the Boxing Day Test

The Boxing Day Test holds unparalleled importance for both teams. With the series tied at 1-1, a victory at the MCG would provide an unassailable lead ahead of the final Test. Beyond the immediate series implications, the match is also critical for the WTC, where every point is vital. India, aiming to regain their form after a rain-marred third Test, will look to overcome the challenges posed by Australia’s disciplined bowling and home advantage. Australia, on the other hand, will be buoyed by their performances in Adelaide and Brisbane, confident of continuing their momentum. However, they face the pressure of maintaining a record, as they have not beaten India? at the MCG since 2011.

Also READ: Aus??tralia confirms their playing XI for Boxing Day Test against India; also ??declares Travis Head fit

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