India’s Champions Trophy Squad: Hardik and Gill Out, This Star Likely as Vice-Captain?

India’s Squad for Champions Trophy 2025: Although the official announcement of India’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is still awaited. Reports suggest that the leadership roles are almost certain. According to The Times of India, Rohit Sharma is expected to lead the team as captain. Meanwhile, the vice-captaincy is likely to be assigned to pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah, provided he fully recovers in time for the tournament. Notably, the vice-captaincy has been a topic of significant discussion.

Also Read: How cyber criminals are scamming Indians

Vice-Captaincy Choices During Rahul Dravid’s Tenure

During the Rahul Dravid era, Hardik Pandya often served as vice-captain, with KL Rahul occasionally stepping into the role. Later, Shubman Gill was assigned the responsibility in ODIs and T20Is after Gautam Gambhir’s arrival but now appears to be out of consideration.

Instead, Jasprit Bumrah is expected to be named vice-captain. The pacer showcased his leadership abilities by guiding India to victory in their lone Test win. During the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and consistently delivering impactful performances with the ball.

Also Read: Donald Trump suggested Canada merge with the U.S after Trudeau’s resignation

Vice-Captaincy Debate to Reignite if Bumrah is Unavailable in Champions Trophy

However, Bumrah’s availability for the Champions Trophy remains uncertain. After sustaining an injury during the final Test against Australia, his participation in the ODI series against England starting February 6—just two weeks before the Champions Trophy—is also in doubt.

If Bumrah is ruled out, the vice-captaincy debate will resurface, leaving the team without a clear frontrunner for the position.