The Pakistan game is upon us in a few days and here is the predicted Indian XI for the game post the warm-ups:
Rohit Sharma
Despite playing just one game in the warm-ups and getting out cheaply, Rohit will be expected to play the game against Pakistan. Rahane was not able to make the most of his chances due to which Rohit will get a chance to play.
Shikhar Dhawan
Back in England and plundering once again, Dhawan scored 40 against New Zealand and 60 against the hapless Bangladeshis to cement his spot at the top for now. India will depend on him to provide an excellent start.
Virat Kohli
The Indian captain is assured of his place and is expected to play a key role in trying to get India to retain their trophy. It is his first major assignment as captain and it will be interesting to see how he copes.
Yuvraj Singh
Probably his last Champions Trophy, Yuvraj has all the experience to back himself up against the Pakistanis. He will be useful in bowling a few overs in the middle too.
MS Dhoni
The legendary Indian keeper will once again be the floater in the middle of the line-up and could move up the line if required. His expertise will be crucial for Kohli to manage in the middle of the match and his keeping is something everyone will look out for.
Hardik Pandya
Pandya scored a belligerent 84 against Bangladesh which means that he is the all-rounder that everyone will be looking to in the final overs to get India to a good score or chase down whatever is in front of them.
Ravindra Jadeja
Another one who was successful the last time India won the tournament, Jadeja will be required to show his class on the field and bowl some excellent overs to keep opponents at bay. His batting too will be handy.
Ravichandran Ashwin
After missing the IPL for the tournament, Ashwin is expected to come out all guns blazing as India’s main strike bowler. He will have to be on top of his game if India are looking to win the Champions Trophy.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar
A bowler who is in top form at the moment, Bhuvi will be required to find the initial breakthroughs in the opponent ranks and ease the pressure on the spinners. He can swing the ball beautifully and will be one player to watch.
Mohammad Shami
Another bowler who looked sharp against the Bangladeshis, Shami will be the supporting act that Bhuvi will need. He too, can change the game in an instant and provide important breakthroughs.
Umesh Yadaav
Umesh Yadav is the pacer in the team and in the windy conditions, he can make the ball rip off the surface and get some purchase. He completes the predicted XI versus the Pakistanis.
