As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, with all matches scheduled in Dubai, the selection of the Indian squad becomes a topic of intense scrutiny and debate.
The inclusion of players in the backup plan often determines how well a team can manage unexpected situations like injuries or poor form.
three Chennai Super Kings (CSK) players could’ve been pivotal in India’s strategy for Champions Trophy 2025.
Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s performance in IPL 2024, where he emerged as the second-highest run-getter with 583 runs, showcases his readiness for the international stage.
Despite this, Gaikwad has not been in the forefront of the BCCI’s considerations for major tournaments.
His role as the skipper for Chennai Super Kings has not only honed his leadership skills but also his game under pressure, particularly in high-octane matches.
Gaikwad’s right-handed batting style gives him a unique edge, especially in a team where the current options at the top of the order, like Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma, are also right-handers.
However, with Yashasvi Jaiswal traveling as a backup for the left-handed opening slot, Gaikwad presents an ideal replacement for either Gill or Sharma.
His ability to adapt his play to different conditions, particularly the spin-friendly tracks expected in Dubai, makes him a strategic pick.
His technique against both pace and spin, combined with his fielding prowess, would add not just depth but also quality to the Indian team’s top order.
Shivam Dube
Shivam Dube’s inclusion in the 2024 T20 World Cup-winning squad was a testament to his utility and adaptability.
Known for his powerful hitting, especially against spinners, Dube has the potential to fill the shoes of Hardik Pandya, who has been labeled as the MVP for India in recent times.
Pandya’s all-round abilities are crucial, but his injury history and fluctuating form necessitate a strong backup.
Dube’s knack for hitting sixes, coupled with his improved bowling, makes him a direct replacement for Pandya.
His performances in the IPL, where he has consistently taken on the role of a finisher, underline his readiness to perform under pressure.
In Dubai, where the pitches can assist spinners, Dube’s ability to take down slow bowlers could be a game-changer.
Moreover, his medium pace adds an element of surprise and variety to the bowling attack, offering tactical options to the captain during the middle overs when the game’s momentum could swing either way.
Khaleel Ahmed
Khaleel Ahmed’s journey in cricket has seen ups and downs, but his recent performances, particularly his ability to swing the new ball and his improved accuracy, suggest he’s ready for a comeback at the international level.
With Arshdeep Singh being the primary left-arm pacer in the Indian setup, Khaleel stands out as a perfect backup.
If Arshdeep encounters any injury or form issues, Khaleel’s inclusion could prove invaluable.
In Dubai, where the pitches can offer some assistance to pace bowlers, especially in the powerplay, Khaleel’s left-arm swing could disrupt batting line-ups early on.
His experience in the IPL, where conditions somewhat mirror those in Dubai, adds to his case.
His ability to bowl tight lines and lengths, combined with his knack for picking up early wickets, could ease the load on the main pacers, Bumrah and Shami, allowing them to be used more strategically through the innings.
In Summary
The Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for the Indian cricket team.
The inclusion of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, and Khaleel Ahmed as part of the backup plan could address several strategic needs.
Gaikwad offers stability and flair at the top, Dube provides the all-round balance that’s crucial in modern cricket, and Khaleel brings in the much-needed variation with his left-arm pace.
These players from Chennai Super Kings not only have the skills but also the temperament to perform in crucial situations.
Their familiarity with Dubai conditions through IPL matches further bolsters their case.
While the primary squad is typically star-studded, having a capable and versatile backup plan is what often separates the good teams from the great ones in cricket.
Including these three could well be the strategic masterstroke that helps India clinch another ICC trophy.
