Champions Trophy 2025: The absence of Jasprit Bumrah from the Indian squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 has raised questions about who will take the lead in the pace department. Former pacer Laxmipathy Balaji has expressed confidence in Mohammed Shami’s ability to step up and lead the Indian bowling attack during this crucial tournament. With Bumrah recovering from a back injury, Shami’s experience and skill will be pivotal for India’s success in the Champions Trophy.
Shami’s Role in the Absence of Bumrah
In an exclusive interview, Laxmipathy Balaji emphasized the importance of Shami’s leadership in India’s pace attack for the Champions Trophy 2025. With Bumrah being a key player in India’s recent successes, his absence creates a significant void. However, Balaji believes that Shami, who made his return to international cricket during the England T20I series, is well-equipped to shoulder the responsibility.
“Shami has always been a reliable performer for India,” Balaji noted. “He has the experience and the skill set to lead the bowling attack. He will need to take the responsibility with the new ball, which is crucial in a tournament like the Champions Trophy.”
Shami’s Experience and Skill Set
Mohammed Shami’s ability to bowl with precision and swing has been his hallmark throughout his career. Known for his lethal pace and the ability to reverse swing the ball, Shami can exploit the conditions during the Champions Trophy, especially in English conditions where the ball tends to swing more. His experience in various formats of the game makes him a valuable asset for India.
Shami’s record in ICC tournaments has been impressive. He has been a key figure for India in several World Cups and Champions Trophy events, consistently picking up wickets in crucial moments. With the responsibility of leading the attack in Bumrah’s absence, Shami will be expected to replicate this form and guide the young pacers in the squad.
The Other Pacers in the Squad
While Shami is expected to take the lead, he won’t be alone in India’s pace attack. Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh, both promising fast bowlers, will also feature in the squad for the Champions Trophy 2025. These young pacers bring a fresh dynamic to the Indian bowling lineup, with their pace and energy adding depth to the attack.
In addition to Shami, Hardik Pandya, who is primarily an all-rounder, will also contribute with the ball. His medium-fast bowling will provide India with more options, and his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations makes him a valuable asset for the team.
Shami’s Key Responsibility: Leading the Attack with the New Ball
According to Balaji, one of the critical aspects of Shami’s role in the Champions Trophy will be his performance with the new ball. The first few overs in a match are often crucial, as they set the tone for the rest of the innings. Shami’s ability to swing the ball and generate movement will be essential in providing India with early breakthroughs.
“The new ball is crucial in any format,” Balaji explained. “Shami has the skill to get the ball to swing both ways, and if he can get early wickets, India will be in a strong position.”
India’s Champions Trophy 2025 Campaign: The Road Ahead
India will begin their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on February 20, facing Bangladesh in their opening match. The tournament will provide Shami with the opportunity to prove himself as the leader of India’s bowling attack. With a strong supporting cast of pacers, including Rana, Arshdeep, and Pandya, India will look to dominate with their pace attack and challenge for the title.
While Bumrah’s absence is undoubtedly a setback, Balaji believes that India’s depth in pace bowling will allow them to adapt and perform well in the Champions Trophy. “The team has a lot of pace options, and Shami’s experience will be key to guiding the young bowlers,” Balaji added.
Conclusion: India’s Bowling Attack in Champions Trophy 2025
With the 2025 Champions Trophy on the horizon, Mohammed Shami’s leadership of India’s pace attack is a topic of great interest. As Bumrah recovers from his injury, Shami will be expected to rise to the occasion and deliver crucial wickets with the new ball. His experience and ability to swing the ball make him a natural choice to lead the attack.
While Shami’s role will be central to India’s success, the presence of talented young bowlers like Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh adds depth to the attack. With the tournament starting on February 20, all eyes will be on Shami as he leads India in this prestigious ICC event.
Image source
