When Hardik Pandya entered Team India after performing brilliantly in the IPL and domestic cricket, many experts believed India had found an all-rounder like Kapil Dev once again. After initial success across all three formats, Hardik distanced himself from Test cricket. Now, there is speculation that he might soon be dropped from the ODI team as well.
The main reason behind Hardik Pandya’s possible exclusion from the ODI team is his inability to bowl a full 10-over spell. He has also been plagued by continuous injuries. Pandya’s last ODI appearance was in October 2023, and he often takes breaks during the ODI series. Additionally, Team India now has an explosive batting all-rounder in Nitish Kumar Reddy, further raising doubts about Pandya’s place in the squad.
With the arrival of Nitish Reddy, the demand for Hardik Pandya’s return to Test cricket has almost disappeared. Nitish performed brilliantly in Australia, showcasing explosive batting and the ability to bowl fast at speeds of 130 km/h. As Nitish’s bowling improves, the need for Pandya in Team India is gradually decreasing.
Hardik Pandya and Nitish Reddy in the 2025 Champions Trophy
Both Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy are expected to be part of India’s 15-member squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy. However, Pandya is likely to get the first opportunity in the playing XI, with Nitish Reddy staying on the bench for the time being. By being with the Indian team, Nitish will have the chance to further develop his bowling skills.
Heart, courage and to do it in front of your family is special. Remarkable talent, with a bright future ahead of him 👏👏👏 my best wishes always. pic.twitter.com/zZRAzE3aEL
— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) December 28, 2024
Probable Team India lineup for the 2025 Champions Trophy
It is almost confirmed that Shubman Gill and captain Rohit Sharma will open the innings for India in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Following them, Virat Kohli is expected to bat at number three, with Shreyas Iyer at number four. KL Rahul may serve as the wicketkeeper at number five, while Hardik Pandya is likely to bat at number six, and Ravindra Jadeja at number seven.
Kuldeep is fit and fine. God grace. BCCI we need him ❤️pic.twitter.com/porEzgbfXQ
— Rathin Dutta 𝕏 (@IamRathinDutta) January 7, 2025
Concerns over Kuldeep Yadav’s fitness
Kuldeep Yadav’s fitness is a concern, and it looks challenging for him to feature in the 2025 Champions Trophy. In his absence, the team may rely on either Axar Patel or Washington Sundar as the main spinner. The fast bowling lineup is likely to include Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Mohammed Shami.
