Hardik Pandya important to India’s playing XI at Champions Trophy, says Kamran Akmal

Former Pakistan cricketer Kamran Akmal has highlighted Hardik Pandya’s indispensable role in the Indian cricket team, asserting that the all-rounder’s presence completes the playing XI for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Akmal emphasized Pandya’s versatility with both bat and ball, calling him a key asset for India in the upcoming tournament.

“The main player in the Indian team, without whom the playing XI is incomplete, is Hardik Pandya. He is remarkable with the bat and ball, and he finishes games as well,” Akmal said on his YouTube channel.

Pandya has played 86 ODIs for India, amassing 1,769 runs at an average of 34.01, including 11 fifties, with a highest score of 92*. As a bowler, he has taken 84 wickets at an average of 35.23, with best figures of 4/24. His ability to contribute in all facets of the game makes him a crucial player for India.

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina also underlined Pandya’s importance for the Champions Trophy. Speaking on Star Sports Press Room, Raina remarked, “The most important role will be Hardik Pandya’s—especially when he bowls in tandem with Kuldeep Yadav.”

Pandya was a key performer for India in the ODI World Cup 2023 before an untimely injury ruled him out during the tournament. His absence was felt deeply, as India missed his explosive batting and reliable bowling in crucial moments.

The ICC Champions Trophy will take place from February 19 to March 9, featuring eight teams competing in 15 matches. The tournament will be hosted in Pakistan and the UAE, with India playing its matches in the UAE under a hybrid model.

Rohit Sharma will lead the Indian team, with Shubman Gill serving as his deputy. India is expected to rely heavily on Hardik Pandya’s all-round capabilities to strengthen their campaign.

India squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja.