Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar Clash Over India’s Champions Trophy 2025 Squad
The Indian cricket team has arrived in Dubai for the Champions Trophy 2025, with their first match scheduled against Bangladesh on February 20. On paper, the team looks strong, and many experts believe Rohit Sharma has a great chance to win another ICC trophy as captain. Team India recently showcased its dominance by winning three consecutive ODIs against England. However, a major controversy has emerged regarding the team selection, shocking cricket fans.
Gautam Gambhir vs. Ajit Agarkar: Selection Dispute
According to media reports, selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir had disagreements over several team selections. A heated debate reportedly took place during the selection meeting regarding certain players’ inclusion in the squad.
One of the key points of contention was the middle-order lineup, especially the position of Shreyas Iyer. Gambhir has suggested frequent changes in the middle order to maintain a left-right batting combination, which means that no player’s batting position will be fixed.
Shreyas Iyer’s Inclusion in the Squad
Shreyas Iyer was India’s highest run-scorer in the middle order during the England ODI series, scoring 181 runs at an average of 60.33, including two half-centuries. Despite his strong performance, there were discussions in the selection meeting about dropping Iyer from the playing XI for the first match to experiment with the left-right combination.
Rishabh Pant vs. KL Rahul: Wicketkeeper Debate
Another major disagreement between Agarkar and Gambhir was over the first-choice wicketkeeper for the Champions Trophy.
- Agarkar had earlier confirmed Rishabh Pant as the first-choice wicketkeeper in a press conference during the previous Champions Trophy squad announcement.
- However, Gambhir and Rohit Sharma backed KL Rahul, who played in all three ODIs against England.
- Pant did not get a single match in the England series, raising concerns about his role in the squad.
What Did Gambhir Say About the Wicketkeeper Selection?
In his last press conference before the team left for the Champions Trophy, Gambhir confirmed KL Rahul as the first-choice wicketkeeper, effectively sidelining Pant. He said:
“It is difficult to comment personally, but if Pant is in the squad, he will get his opportunity. Right now, KL is our No. 1 wicketkeeper. He has performed well for us. When you have two quality wicketkeepers, you cannot play both at the same time. Hopefully, Pant will be ready when his chance comes.”
Conclusion
The internal disagreements between Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar have raised questions about India’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad selection process. With Shreyas Iyer’s batting position and the KL Rahul vs. Rishabh Pant debate creating controversies, it remains to be seen how Team India will handle these challenges on the field.
