Former India cricketer Suresh Raina believes that the absence of Suryakumar Yadav from Team India’s squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 will be strongly felt. He described Suryakumar as an important player who could have added a significant advantage to the team during matches in Dubai, where all games will be played on pitches that tend to be slow and spin-friendly.
Suryakumar and Mohammed Siraj were two key players left out of the Champions Trophy squad announced on January 18. They were part of India’s 2023 ODI World Cup squad, along with Prasidh Krishna, Shardul Thakur, and Ishan Kishan. Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin also retired recently, adding to the list of notable absences.
Raina highlighted Suryakumar’s ability to score at a fast pace and handle pressure in the middle order. “Surya is a 360-degree player who can score nine runs per over in any situation. He can dominate bowlers and bat at any position,” Raina said. According to him, Suryakumar’s unique skill set could have brought an ‘X-factor’ to the team, especially with some top-order players not in form.
Raina also spoke about the challenges in the bowling department. Jasprit Bumrah is recovering from a back issue, and Mohammed Shami has only recently returned from a heel injury. Raina felt that Mohammed Siraj could have been a valuable addition to the squad.
“Siraj showed great form in Australia and could still be included in the squad if Bumrah is not fully fit before the February 12 deadline,” Raina said. He praised Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh for their skills in bowling at the death but added that Siraj’s experience makes him a better option.
Rohit Sharma will captain the team, while Shubman Gill has been appointed as vice-captain. Raina called this a good decision and a step toward the future. “Gill has proven himself in ODIs and is ready for this role. Rohit knows how to guide young players, and Shubman will bring value to the team,” Raina commented.
Raina pointed out that the slow and spin-friendly pitches in Dubai will require a strong spin-bowling attack. He emphasized the role of left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav and all-rounder Hardik Pandya but expressed concerns about finding the right partner for Kuldeep in the spin department.
India has won the Champions Trophy twice before—in 2002 (shared with Sri Lanka) and in 2013 under MS Dhoni’s leadership. Raina is confident that Rohit Sharma’s team has the capability to go all the way. “The key will be selecting the best playing XI from the squad. The conditions will be challenging, but the team has the talent to succeed,” Raina said.
Raina backed Rishabh Pant as the first-choice wicket-keeper for the tournament. “Pant’s keeping has improved, but he needs to bat with more responsibility in ODIs. If he stays at the crease longer, he can change the game,” Raina stated.