Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan is of the belief that team India will come out triumphant in the Champions Trophy 2025. The eight-team tournament will begin on February 19, with the battle between Pakistan and New Zealand in Karachi. T20 World Cup champion India will be eying their second straight victory in two years at global events. India last won the coveted title back in 2013 and in 2017 they lost to Pakistan in the final. Dhawan, who called time on his international career in August 2024, believes that Bumrah’s absence will be strongly felt but India have enough strength in their bowling attack to fill Bumrah’s absence. 

“My concern is they are going to miss Jasprit Bumrah, there is no doubt he will be a big absence and I think they will feel it very strongly," Dhawan told ICC.

“For me, he is the best bowler in the world, and his accuracy is hard to replicate. He is also a very calm character and that is crucial in a huge ICC event like this," he said.

Ahead of the tournament, India suffered a massive setback after Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of the tournament due to an injury. With Bumrah being unavailable, Dhawan feels that young firebrand Harshit Rana could emerge as a massive performer for India. 

“At the same time, Harshit Rana has come into the side and I think that is really exciting – keep an eye on him, I think he could have a breakout tournament. I like his attitude, he is a go-getter and he is not afraid of anything. He accepts challenges and we have seen in the England series that he is in form. I am sure he will look to seize this opportunity and, if he does, he could provide a real x-factor for India," Dhawan said.

With India’s thrilling success in recent times, Dhawan has a lot of reasons to be optimistic for India. 

“There are a lot of reasons to be optimistic for India. They have a very balanced side, especially with the bat – there is a nice blend of experience and youth. Shubman Gill, in particular, is so consistent and he has a big role to play. I think he will have a great tournament.

“Rohit Sharma has found form, Virat Kohli is there; they are a top side and will take some stopping.”