Champions Trophy 2025: These Indian players didn't get a game
What's the story
India entered the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in Dubai with an unchanged, spin-heavy Playing XI.
While India retained their four-pronged spin attack, the likes of Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, and Arshdeep Singh continued to warm the bench.
Their absence raises questions about the selection strategy, leaving many wondering why they were included.
Here are further details.
Same playing XI
India's Playing XI unchanged for second consecutive game
As mentioned, India have retained their spin-heavy XI in the ongoing final against New Zealand, making it the second consecutive game with the same XI.
The last change came in the final group match against New Zealand when mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy replaced pacer Harshit Rana.
With four spinners in the line-up, India continue to back their attack in the semi-final and final.
Settled XI
Rohit, Gill, and Kohli at top
Before the tournament, KL Rahul's place in the XI was uncertain. Rahul has managed 106 runs (three innings).
However, India's current XI appears settled, with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli at the top.
Meanwhile, the team has also maintained a left-right balance, with Axar Patel at number five, followed by Rahul, Hardik Pandya, and Ravindra Jadeja as finishers.
Playing XI
India's Playing XI for final
India (Playing XI): Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, and Varun Chakravarthy.
No spot
No place for trio of Pant, Sundar, and Arshdeep
With India sticking to an unchanged XI, a settled line-up, and multiple bowling options, Pant, Sundar, and Arshdeep have remained on the bench throughout.
Although left-hander Pant's aggressive batting made him a strong contender for selection, coach Gautam Gambhir and Rohit appear to have found the perfect balance with Axar and Chakravarthy, ensuring both batting depth and variety in bowling attack.
Pace attack
India reaping results with two-man pace attack
As mentioned, India have stuck with a spin-heavy XI in their last three Champions Trophy games.
Despite criticism, their two-man pace attack has delivered results, giving Rohit Sharma multiple options.
Mohammed Shami is the only specialist pacer, supported by all-rounder Pandya.
Meanwhile, the duo has shared 12 wickets in four innings, with Shami taking three and Pandya two in the first 10 overs.