As India prepares for the prestigious Champions Trophy 2025, where all their matches are slated to be played in Dubai, the selection committee faces the daunting task of choosing a squad that can adapt to the unique challenges of the subcontinental conditions.
3 players from Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) who could’ve been pivotal in Champions Trophy 2025.
Yash Dayal
Yash Dayal, the left-arm pacer from RCB, has emerged as a significant prospect for the Indian team.
His journey in IPL 2024 was nothing short of a revelation, where he showcased his ability to bowl with precision and pace, particularly in the death overs.
His knack for swinging the ball both ways has made him a dark horse in Indian cricket, potentially ready to take on the big stage like the Champions Trophy.
Dayal’s performance in IPL 2024 not only secured his spot in RCB’s first XI but also caught the eye of national selectors.
His ability to mix up his deliveries, including cutters and slower balls, could be vital on the flat tracks of Dubai, where pace bowlers often struggle to make an impact.
His left-arm angle adds a different dimension to the Indian bowling attack, offering variety that could unsettle even the best in the business.
With the senior pacers possibly resting or rotated, Dayal could be the fresh face India needs to rejuvenate their bowling lineup.
His inclusion would not only be a testament to his skills but also a strategic move to build for the future.
Rajat Patidar
Rajat Patidar has long been a stalwart in domestic cricket, particularly in the Ranji Trophy, where his batting has been both consistent and impactful.
His transition to IPL has been seamless, with a standout performance in IPL 2024, which further solidified his reputation as a reliable middle-order batter.
His ability to anchor innings while also accelerating when needed makes him a versatile choice for the Indian team, especially in a tournament like the Champions Trophy where every match can be a knockout.
Patidar’s experience in first-class cricket, where he has scored runs under various conditions, suggests he can adapt to the demands of international cricket.
His calm demeanor and technical proficiency on the field could be invaluable on the slow, turning pitches of Dubai.
His knack for handling spin bowling, a common feature in the UAE, could provide stability to the Indian middle order, particularly if key players like Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma face any form dip or require rest.
Including Patidar in the backup plan isn’t just about filling a slot; it’s about bringing in a player who can potentially turn matches around with his bat.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Bhuvneshwar Kumar, although somewhat sidelined by selectors in recent times, remains one of the shrewdest bowlers in the T20 format.
His T20I stats speak volumes of his capability – with 141 wickets in 121 matches at an economy rate of 5.08, he has proven his mettle time and again.
His experience in swinging the new ball and his mastery over the death overs with variations like yorkers, slower balls, and bouncers could be a game-changer for India in Dubai.
Kumar’s skill set is particularly effective in conditions where the ball tends to grip and turn, allowing him to exploit the pitch’s characteristics.
His understanding of when to bowl what, especially in high-pressure situations, could be crucial for India in a tournament where every run and every wicket counts.
His return to the national side for the Champions Trophy could be seen as a strategic move to bring back a seasoned bowler who can adapt and perform under pressure.
His presence in the squad would offer not just bowling prowess but also invaluable mentorship to the younger brigade, including Yash Dayal.
In Summary
Incorporating Yash Dayal, Rajat Patidar, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar into India’s backup plan for the Champions Trophy 2025 could be a masterstroke.
Dayal’s youthful energy and skill, Patidar’s consistent batting, and Kumar’s seasoned approach to bowling could collectively enhance India’s chances of lifting the trophy.
These players from RCB not only bring skill but also a blend of experience and potential that can adjust to the tournament’s demands.
With all matches in Dubai, where conditions can be tricky, their inclusion might just be the key to unlocking India’s success in this marquee event.
It’s about time these talents are given the platform to shine on the international stage, potentially scripting new chapters in Indian cricket’s storied history.
