Two Indian Players Unlikely to Feature in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025: A Look Back at 2017
The ICC Champions Trophy is a prestigious event in the cricketing calendar, showcasing the best ODI talent. India has a rich history in the tournament, but as the 2025 edition approaches, some familiar faces from the 2017 campaign are unlikely to feature. This article examines why Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Umesh Yadav, key members of the 2017 squad, are likely to miss out in 2025.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar: The Waning Swing King
Bhuvneshwar in Champions Trophy 2017:
Bhuvneshwar Kumar was a vital cog in India's bowling attack in the 2017 Champions Trophy. His ability to swing the ball both ways made him a potent threat in the early overs. While specific tournament stats are difficult to isolate, his overall ODI record in 2017 reflects his importance:
- Played 11 ODIs in 2017
- Took 13 wickets at an average of 34.69
- Economy rate of 4.79
He provided crucial breakthroughs and controlled the flow of runs in the initial stages of the innings.
Reasons for Potential Exclusion in 2025:
- Injury and Form: Bhuvneshwar has struggled with injuries in recent years, impacting his consistency and pace. While he retains his swing, the reduced pace has made him less effective. His recent IPL and domestic performances have also been inconsistent.
- Rise of New Pacers: The emergence of bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and others has increased competition. These bowlers offer more than just swing, with variations and death-bowling expertise.
- Changing Team Dynamics: Modern ODI cricket demands multi-skilled players. While Bhuvneshwar is a skilled bowler, his limited contributions with the bat and in the field make him a less attractive option compared to more well-rounded players.
Umesh Yadav: The Pace Merchant's Fade
Umesh in Champions Trophy 2017:
Umesh Yadav provided raw pace and aggression to India's bowling attack in 2017. He played 5 matches in the tournament and took 4 wickets at an average of 46.25 and an economy rate of 6.16. His ability to generate pace and bounce made him a dangerous proposition, especially on helpful surfaces.
Reasons for Potential Exclusion in 2025:
- Inconsistency and Economy: While Umesh possesses raw pace, his inconsistency and tendency to leak runs have been concerns. In modern ODI cricket, maintaining a good economy rate is crucial.
- Competition from Other Pacers: The rise of Mohammed Shami, Shardul Thakur, and others has pushed Umesh down the pecking order. These bowlers offer a better balance of pace, control, and batting ability.
- Evolving Game: Modern ODI pitches and batting strategies require bowlers to be more adaptable. Umesh's reliance on pace without consistent control makes him less suitable for the current game.
While Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Umesh Yadav were valuable assets in the 2017 Champions Trophy, the evolving nature of ODI cricket, coupled with their individual challenges and the emergence of new talent, makes their inclusion in the 2025 squad unlikely. This reflects the constant evolution of team dynamics and the competitive nature of international cricket.
The 2017 Champions Trophy stats, while showcasing their past contributions, highlight the differences in their roles and performances compared to the current demands of the game.
Champions Trophy 2025 Groups and Teams
Group A
Group B
Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule
Group A
Group B
Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule
| Date | Time (IST) | Venue | Match |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 19, 2025 | 2:30 pm | Karachi | Pakistan vs New Zealand |
| February 20, 2025 | 2:30 pm | Dubai | Bangladesh vs India |
| February 21, 2025 | 2:30 pm | Karachi | Afghanistan vs South Africa |
| February 22, 2025 | 2:30 pm | Lahore | Australia vs England |
| February 23, 2025 | 2:30 pm | Dubai | Pakistan vs India |
| February 24, 2025 | 2:30 pm | Rawalpindi | Bangladesh vs New Zealand |
| February 25, 2025 | 2:30 pm | Rawalpindi | Australia vs South Africa |
| February 26, 2025 | 2:30 pm | Lahore | Afghanistan vs England |
| February 27, 2025 | 2:30 pm | Rawalpindi | Pakistan vs Bangladesh |
| February 28, 2025 | 2:30 pm | Lahore | Afghanistan vs Australia |
| March 1, 2025 | 2:30 pm | Karachi | South Africa vs England |
| March 2, 2025 | 2:30 pm | Dubai | New Zealand vs India |
| March 4, 2025 | 2:30 pm | Dubai | Semi-Final A1 vs B2 |
| March 5, 2025 | 2:30 pm | Dubai | Semi-Final B1 vs A2 |
| March 9, 2025 | 2:30 pm | Dubai | Final |
Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025 : Schedule, Teams and All You Need to Know
TOPICS MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
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