Mumbai: The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, will meet on Saturday to finalize India’s squad for the Champions Trophy. Among the key issues they will address are the fitness of ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah and the possible inclusion of rising star Yashasvi Jaiswal in the 15-member provisional squad.

Bumrah’s Fitness Concerns
Bumrah’s availability remains uncertain following a back spasm he experienced during the recent Sydney Test against Australia. He was unable to bowl on the final day at the SCG and has been undergoing “off-loading” under the supervision of the physios at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. Agarkar, along with head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma, will assess his fitness status before making a decision.
A definitive update on Bumrah’s condition is expected when Agarkar and Rohit address the media after the selection meeting. Rohit’s presence at the press conference is also a strong indicator that he will retain his position as India’s ODI captain, despite questions surrounding his Test future following a disappointing series in Australia.
Jaiswal’s Case for Selection
The selectors face a tough call on Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has been in excellent form. As a left-handed batter, Jaiswal offers variety at the top of the order. However, his inclusion could lead to a direct competition with KL Rahul, as the top four positions are almost locked with Rohit, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer.
To accommodate Jaiswal, the selectors may consider giving him a chance in the upcoming three-match ODI series against England, while retaining KL Rahul for the ICC tournament.
Spotlight on Wicketkeepers
Rishabh Pant is likely to be the primary wicketkeeper, especially as Sanju Samson’s absence from the Vijay Hazare Trophy has not been well-received. In such a scenario, Dhruv Jurel may emerge as a candidate for the second wicketkeeper slot.
Bowling Attack: Focus on Shami and Kuldeep
Mohammed Shami is set to secure a place in the squad, having featured in domestic games and being named for the T20I series against England. Kuldeep Yadav’s fitness is also under review as he recovers from a groin injury. His recent bowling videos shared on social media could boost his chances of making the squad.
Prasidh Krishna, another pacer in contention, is expected to be part of the team for the tournament, which starts with India taking on Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai.
Karun Nair and Other Prospects
Karun Nair has impressed with 752 runs at an astounding average in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, including five centuries. However, the competition in India’s middle order, which includes all-rounder Hardik Pandya, might make it challenging for Nair to find a place. He could, however, be considered for the ODI series against England.
As the selectors finalize the squad, all eyes will be on their choices for India’s Champions Trophy campaign and the preceding England series.