With the squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 now announced, there has been considerable surprise and debate over the inclusion of four spinners in India’s lineup. Many have questioned the rationale behind having so many spinners, especially considering India only has three frontline pacers in the squad, along with Hardik Pandya as an all-rounder. The inclusion of spinners like Axar Patel and Washington Sundar has sparked discussions, with many wondering if the primary motive was to strengthen the batting depth in the team, alongside their bowling skills.
It’s clear that the selection of these spinners is not solely based on their ability to bowl, but also on their batting prowess. Both Axar Patel and Washington Sundar offer solid batting options down the order, providing the team with greater depth in the middle and lower order.
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This balance is essential in a tournament like the Champions Trophy, where depth in both batting and bowling could prove to be the key to success. While the Indian team has traditionally been known for its strong pace attack, the inclusion of these all-rounders also adds a much-needed buffer, ensuring that the team isn’t overly reliant on just one aspect of the game.
Neutral Surface
The conditions in Dubai also play a significant role in this selection. Dubai’s surfaces are generally dry, making them more favorable for spin bowling. Spinners have traditionally had an advantage on these surfaces, and India is looking to capitalize on that.
However, there’s also the challenge of dew during the evening, which can make it difficult for spinners to grip the ball as the game progresses into the night. This makes it essential for India’s management to carefully consider when and how to use their spinners, particularly if they are bowling second.
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Given these conditions, we can expect India to go with a three-spinner lineup in the Champions Trophy. Kuldeep Yadav, with his wrist-spin, is likely to be a key player in this setup, bringing variation and control to the bowling attack. Along with Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, India will have an array of spin options at their disposal.
It will be fascinating to see how Rohit Sharma manages this spin-heavy attack, balancing their use while taking the changing conditions into account. Ultimately, the team’s success will hinge not just on the quality of their spinners, but on how well they adapt to the challenges posed by the Dubai conditions, including the threat of dew and the nature of the pitch.
