BCCI likely to seek extension for Champions Trophy 2025 squad submission

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) may postpone the announcement of India's ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against England and the Champions Trophy in Pakistan.

Initially, the selection committee was expected to unveil the provisional Champions Trophy squad by January 12, adhering to the International Cricket Council (ICC) guidelines.

However, the board is likely to seek an extension, citing recent commitments in Australia for the Test series.

Meanwhile, the T20I squad for the five-match series against England could be revealed within the next two days.

Ahead of major global tournaments, the ICC mandates that teams submit their provisional squads at least one month prior, allowing room for subsequent changes.

However, the ICC has advanced this deadline to five weeks before the tournament's start.

In response, the BCCI plans to delay the announcement of the Champions Trophy squad, likely revealing it around January 18–19. The tournament is set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan and the UAE.

The T20 squad is expected to feature familiar faces from recent series against Bangladesh and South Africa.

Notable absentees, such as Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, are unlikely to make a return.

Arshdeep Singh is expected to lead the bowling attack in the T20Is, with a possibility of his inclusion in the ODI squad as well.

Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami is anticipated to make a return to the ODI squad.

Although his participation in the T20Is remains uncertain, Shami is likely to play in the England ODIs and the Champions Trophy.

Having recently represented Bengal in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shami appears to have received clearance from the BCCI's Sports Science wing in Bengaluru.

His last international appearance was during the ICC Cricket World Cup in October–November 2023.

Washington Sundar is expected to feature in the ODI squad, underlining his growing prominence across formats.

Similarly, Yashasvi Jaiswal is also likely to earn a spot. On the other hand, young prospect Nitish Kumar Reddy is not expected to make the ODI squad but will likely retain his place in the T20I lineup.

England's tour of India begins with five T20Is starting January 22, followed by three ODIs scheduled for February 6, 9, and 12.

The performances in the ODIs are expected to shape India's squad for the Champions Trophy.