The anticipation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is reaching new heights as teams gear up for the prestigious event set to take place in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Scheduled to begin on February 19, the tournament marks the return of the 50-over competition after an eight-year gap, ??with top teams vying for glor??y.

For India, the focus r??emains on assembling a formidable squad capable of adapting to the conditions in both host nations. With spinners likely to play a crucial role, the team management has made some strategic selections to bolster their bowling attack.

Gautam Gambhir names India’s X-Factor for the tournament

Former Indian cricketer and current India head coach Gautam Gambhir has identified mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy as India’s potential ‘X-factorâ€?for the Champions Trophy 2025. Speaking after India’s third ODI against England, Gambhir high??lighted the value that the unorthodox bowler brings to the team, particularly against opponents unfamiliar with his variations.

“See, the only reason was that we wanted to have another wicket-taking option in the middle. We know what Varun brings to the table and know that Varun can be a big threat for many teams who haven’t played him. He can also be an X-factor,” said Gambhir in the post-match presser.

Also READ: Australia’s Michae??l Clarke picks his favourite team to win Champions Trophy 2025

Gambhir explains last-minute inclusion of mystery spinner

The decision to include Chakravarthy in India’s Champions Trophy squad came as a surprise to many, given that he has not been a regular in the ODI setup. However, Gambhir explained that his selection was based on the need for an additional attacking option in the middle overs.

“I am not saying he is going to start and everything else, but it is always good to have a strong bowling line-up because we know if he can actually get wickets in the middle, it will always be beneficial and that was one of the reasons,” added Gambhir.

Also READ: West Ind??ies legend Chris Gayle predicts the winner of Champions Trophy 2025

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The much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to kick off in Pakistan and the UAE, with the tournament promising to deliver plenty of exciting cricket. The 8-team event, scheduled to begin from February 19, will see the best teams in world cricket battle it out for supremacy. As one of the most prestigious tournaments in the cricket calendar, it is sure to entertain fans with thrilling contests and ?high stakes.

High expectations from Team India

India, who finished as runners-up in the previous edition of the Champions Trophy, will have huge expectations on their shoulders going into the 2025 tournament. The team, led by Rohit Sharma, has been in stellar form across formats, with a lineup that boasts a m??ix of experienced players and exciting young talent. Given their performance in recent tournaments, including their dominance in the 2024 T20 World Cup, India are expected to make a deep run in the competition and will certainly be one of the favorites to lift the trophy.

Also READ: AB de? Villiers names the most dangerous team of Champions Trop?hy 2025

AB de Villiers names India’s X Factor for the tournament

In a recent interaction on his YouTube channel, former South Africa captain AB de Villiers, shared his thoughts on the X-factor player for India in the upcoming Champions Trophy. De Villiers reckoned that Kuldeep Yadav, the?? talented left-arm wrist spinner, could play a pivotal role for India in the UAE.

“Kuldeep Yadav is also in the Indian team, who I think can prove to be an X-factor for India. India is going to play its matches in Dubai. Spinners can get an advantage on the pitch there. Kuldeep can perform well for India,” said de Villiers.

Notably, the Champi??ons Trophy will be held in conditions that suit spinners, and Kuldeep’s ability to turn the ball sharply and create pressure could make him a key player for India’s success in the tournament. With his diverse skills, the ability to pick wickets in crucial moments, and his reputation on the big stage, Kuldeep could very well be the difference-maker for India in the global event.

Also READ: Pakistan’s Shoaib Akhtar predicts the finalists of Champions Trophy 2025

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