'If one format goes wrong it does not mean...': Rohit Sharma picks star batter whose form will play a crucial role for India in Champions Trophy 2025

Gill who got promoted as ODI vice-captain for the England series and Champions Trophy recently roared back in form during India vs England's third ODI at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. He scored 112 runs and helped the Men in Blue to win that match by 142 runs. The young opening batter was also awarded Player of the Series for his iconic performance in the same three-match series. Rohit believes that Gill's form will play a crucial role in India's performance in the Champions Trophy. 

"Gill is a classy player, there were no questions on his ability, if one format goes wrong it does not mean that he will be bad in other formats. If he had a great tournament here it will help us to achieve what we are looking for" said Rohit while addressing media on match eve in Dubai. 

 

Champions Trophy will be played in a hybrid model where matches featuring India and one of a semifinal will take place in Dubai and Pakistan's Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi will host the rest of the tournament. The final of the showpiece event will take place on March 9. The venue for title decider also depends on India's performance, if Men in Blue qualifies for the summit clash it will also take place in the state of UAE. Otherwise, Lahore will host the summit clash.  

After finishing the first league match against Bangladesh, Team India will face arch-rivals Pakistan for their second clash which will take place on Sunday, February 23. India will play their third league match against New Zealand on March 2. 

India's Group Stage Fixtures:

20 February - India vs Bangladesh, Dubai