India’s Predicted XI vs Pakistan in ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Will Harshit Rana Make Way for Arshdeep Singh?

Team India Gears Up for High-Stakes Clash Against Pakistan

The highly anticipated India vs. Pakistan clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place on Sunday, February 23, in Dubai. As the tournament progresses, the Men in Blue have started strong with a victory over Bangladesh, while Pakistan suffered an early setback with a loss to New Zealand.

With no injuries in the squad, Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir may consider making strategic changes for this crucial encounter. The key debate revolves around India’s bowling combination, particularly the selection of spinners and pacers.

Kuldeep Yadav vs. Varun Chakaravarthy: Spin Dilemma

India’s spin department boasts impressive depth with Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel as all-rounders, while Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy offer specialized spin options.

• Kuldeep Yadav: A proven performer with the ability to break crucial partnerships in ODIs.
• Varun Chakaravarthy: His unorthodox mystery spin can pose a challenge to Pakistan’s batting lineup.

However, recent reports suggest that Kuldeep Yadav is likely to retain his spot, as Varun Chakaravarthy is dealing with a minor niggle.

Harshit Rana or Arshdeep Singh? India’s Pace Selection Conundrum

The absence of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has opened the door for emerging fast bowlers.

• Harshit Rana impressed in his debut series against England and picked up three wickets against Bangladesh.
• Arshdeep Singh, a left-arm pacer known for troubling batters, remains a strong contender to feature in the playing XI.

The final decision will depend on team management’s strategy—whether they prioritize Harshit’s raw pace or Arshdeep’s experience and control.

India’s Predicted XI vs Pakistan – ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Openers:

• Rohit Sharma (c)
• Shubman Gill

Top & Middle Order:

• Virat Kohli
• Shreyas Iyer
• KL Rahul (wk)

All-Rounders:

• Hardik Pandya
• Ravindra Jadeja
• Axar Patel

Spinners:

• Kuldeep Yadav

Pacers:

• Mohammed Shami
• Arshdeep Singh

With the high-stakes clash on the horizon, India’s final playing XI will be crucial in determining the outcome of this blockbuster encounter. Will Harshit Rana get another chance, or will Arshdeep Singh make his way into the squad? The answer awaits on match day!