India’s Final ODI Before Champions Trophy 2025
India is set to play its last ODI match before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Since the team will not have any warm-up matches before the tournament, this game is crucial for final preparations. Though India has already secured the series, this match will help test players and finalize strategies for the big tournament.
Key Points:
- India has already won the series but will test new players.
- Three major changes are expected in the playing XI.
- This is India’s last 50-over match before the Champions Trophy 2025.
Ravindra Jadeja Rested, Washington Sundar Gets a Chance
All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is likely to be rested for this match. He has been playing continuously since September and needs a break before the Champions Trophy. In his place, Washington Sundar is expected to feature in the playing XI. Sundar has not played a 50-over match since August last year, and this game will be a crucial opportunity for him to get match practice before the tournament.
Why This Change?
- Jadeja has been India’s best performer in the last two ODIs but needs rest to stay fresh for the Champions Trophy.
- Sundar needs match practice in case he is required during the tournament.
Arshdeep Singh to Strengthen the Bowling Attack
India is likely to bring in left-arm fast bowler Arshdeep Singh for this match. His ability to swing the ball and bowl well in the death overs makes him a key player. While Harshit Rana has performed well, Arshdeep offers more experience and variety to the pace attack.
Why Arshdeep?
- Adds left-arm variety to the bowling lineup.
- Effective with both the new ball and in the death overs.
- Needs game time before the Champions Trophy.
Kuldeep Yadav Returns to the Squad
Spinner Kuldeep Yadav is set to return after missing the previous matches. His experience in ICC tournaments makes him a crucial part of India’s plans. While Varun Chakaravarthy has done well, Kuldeep’s ability to control the middle overs and his success on spin-friendly Dubai pitches make him a strong contender for the Champions Trophy squad.
Why Kuldeep?
- Experienced in ICC tournaments.
- Effective in middle overs, especially on Dubai pitches.
- Needs match practice after recovering from injury.
India’s Predicted XI for 3rd ODI Against England
Playing XI:
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Shubman Gill (VC)
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (WK)
- Hardik Pandya
- Washington Sundar
- Axar Patel
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Shami
- Arshdeep Singh
Bench Players:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Rishabh Pant (WK)
- Washington Sundar
- Harshit Rana
- Varun Chakaravarthy
- Ravindra Jadeja
How These Changes Help India in Champions Trophy 2025
These changes are not just for the 3rd ODI but are part of a bigger plan for the Champions Trophy 2025. The team management is giving players game time to assess their form and readiness. Resting key players like Jadeja while testing Sundar, Arshdeep, and Kuldeep ensures a balanced and well-prepared squad.
Key Takeaways:
- India is making smart changes to prepare for the Champions Trophy.
- New players get a chance to prove themselves before the tournament.
- Senior players like Jadeja are rested to stay fresh.
India’s performance in this match will be closely watched, as it will provide insights into the team’s final composition for the Champions Trophy 2025.