Former India national cricket team opener Aakash Chopra has shared his thoughts on the Men in Blue's probable playing XI for their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener against Bangladesh national cricket team on February 20 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Chopra believes that if captain Rohit Sharma is making the final selection decisions, Kuldeep Yadav is likely to be part of the playing XI.

aakash-chopra-predicts-indias-playing-xi-for-champions-trophy-2025-opener-against-bangladeshSpeaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra analyzed India’s lineup for the much-anticipated tournament, offering his insights on key selections.

"What could be India's playing XI on the 20th? Shubman Gill with Rohit Sharma, the captain and vice-captain will open. There shouldn't be any question asked about No. 3 because run-machine (Virat) Kohli will be there. Shreyas Iyer has to be there at No. 4," Chopra said.

"I see Axar Patel batting at No. 5 and I am thinking (KL) Rahul at No. 6 and Hardik Pandya at No. 7. Then you are looking at Ravindra Jadeja at No. 8," he added.

"If Rohit Sharma is taking all the calls, then I see Kuldeep (Yadav) playing. However, if Gautam enjoys greater preference because I don't know the dynamics, Varun Chakaravarthy might get an opportunity first, but my vote will be for Kuldeep Yadav," he said.

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The Champions Trophy 2025 kicks off on February 19, with Pakistan taking on New Zealand in Karachi. India’s group-stage matches include Bangladesh on February 20, Pakistan on February 23, and New Zealand on March 2, all in Dubai.

Aakash Chopra's probable Playing XI of India against Bangladesh

Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli. Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh