“Gautam Gambhir and Rohit Sharma Clash Over Champions Trophy Squad: Disagreement on Sanju Samson’s Inclusion”|
Indian cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir had an opposition for himself over two very important decisions the Champions Trophy 2025 squad’s. As of now, reports Dainik Jagran, differences have forced a much longer discussion over the final result between Gambhir, captain Rohit Sharma and chief selector Ajit Agarkar before the actual announcement.
The report revealed that Gambhir had insisted on Hardik Pandya as the vice-captain, while Rohit and Agarkar had felt that Shubman Gill was the right choice. The most contentious issue that prevailed was about the wicket-keeper. Gambhir had insisted on the selection of Sanju Samson, while Rohit and Agarkar had chosen their man in Rishabh Pant.
The other news is that chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed Jasprit Bumrah might not be available for the first two ODIs against England due to fitness issues. Harshit Rana has been named as replacement, and it all depends on his medical assessment due in early February. Barring these uncertainties, Bumrah has been added to the Champions Trophy squad which starts after the England series.
Agarkar explained during a press conference, alongside skipper Rohit Sharma, that Bumrah had been advised to rest for five weeks following his back spasm during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Bumrah missed the second innings of the final Test in Sydney and underwent scans. Agarkar stated:
“We’re awaiting updates from the medical team. By early February, we’ll have clarity on his fitness.”
Earlier, the BCCI National Cricket Academy was criticized over unclear fitness updates to players, especially Mohammed Shami, whom Rohit cited when India suffered loss in Brisbane. Agarkar said such reports should reach everyone on time without any vagueness as has been a challenge in this period.
The ICC has requested to be updated by 11th February with the final India squad for Champions Trophy. In this duration, India will play their first three ODI matches scheduled against England on 6th, 9th and 12th February preceding their actual campaign that will start from 19th of February. Three matches against England will be the first 50 overs matches played by India after they return from the end of August, 2024 Sri Lanka tour.
