Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra has questioned the selection of only three fast bowlers in India’s 2025 Champions Trophy squad. The Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel has picked Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Arshdeep Singh for the marquee event.
Mohammed Siraj was ignored despite consistent performances in the ODI format. Siraj has picked 71 wickets in 44 ODIs at an impressive average of 24.06 in the 50-over format.
Chopra noted that India would play two fast bowlers in the playing XI since they have picked three pacers in the squad.
“Only three fast bowlers are there, and that is big news for me. If you are picking three fast bowlers, it means your thought process is to play only two out of the three. If you wanted to play three, you would have picked four. It’s as simple as that. It means you have decided that you might play three spinners. You have almost played your hand before anything has started,” Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel.
The reputed commentator also questioned Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness after he recently suffered a back injury on the Australian tour.
“You have picked three fast bowlers, and in that, no one knows anything about Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness. The chairman (Ajit Agarkar) was asked and he also said he doesn’t know as of now. He will hopefully get fit. Mohammed Shami is probably fit but we don’t know how his form and international fitness will be. Arshdeep is now being played in ODIs,” Chopra added.
The former Delhi player also felt sad for Mohammed Siraj, who was ignored for CT’s squad. Chopra feels India could have picked one less spinner and added Siraj should have been there.
“There is no place for Mohammed Siraj. He had not done that wrong that he has been totally sidelined. I feel for DSP. Siraj, I am feeling for you. Siraj’s name should have been in this team. One spinner less could have been picked and the rest is looking okay,” he said.
India will begin their Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20.
