Follow UsFormer India opener Shikhar Dhawan is confident that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will “bounce back stronger” in the 2025 Champions Trophy, starting on February 19. The two senior batters have struggled in red-ball cricket, but their numbers in the 50-over format have been quite impressive.
In ODIs since 2023, skipper Rohit has slammed 1412 runs in 29 innings at an average of 52.3 and a strike rate of close to 120, while Kohli has amassed 1435 in 27 innings at 65.23 and a strike rate of 98.4.
“Virat and Rohit are both world-class players. They’re legends of the game at this point in their careers, and I have complete confidence in their abilities,” Dhawan told the Times of India.
“Every player goes through rough patches, but that doesn’t define them. A couple of bad performances here and there won’t change what they’re capable of. We all know what Rohit and Virat can do—they’ve proven it time and again. I have no doubt they’ll bounce back stronger and continue to deliver for the team.”
Talking about India’s squad for the 50-over event, Dhawan said: “India’s current squad is incredibly strong and well-balanced. We have experienced players like Rohit, Virat, and Bumrah, while young talents like Arsh and Yashasvi are coming through.
“Our batting depth is rock solid, and the form of our pacers has been impressive. We’ve been consistent across all formats, and I truly believe we have the potential to win any tournament we play in.”
India will commence their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai before taking on Pakistan on February 23. The last time India played Pakistan in the Champions Trophy was during the grand finale of the 2017 edition, when the Men in Green emerged victorious by 180 runs.
“The India vs Pakistan rivalry is always special. There’s a unique intensity to these games—so much energy, so many emotions—it’s a rivalry like no other. Representing India and playing against Pakistan is an absolute honour, and the atmosphere on the field is unlike anything I’ve experienced,” said Dhawan.
“Every moment feels bigger because of the rivalry, and it’s one of those matches that every player looks forward to with great excitement. I am sure India will come up with flying colours.”
India won the 2013 edition, where Dhawan was the leading run-scorer. The left-hander smashed 363 runs in five innings at an average of 90.75. In the final, India defeated England by just five runs to lift the trophy. “Lifting the trophy with my teammates after such an intense tournament is one of those moments I’ll cherish for the rest of my life. Honestly, it doesn’t get better than that!
“Another memory I’ll never forget is Virat’s Gangnam Style dance after the win—it was hilarious and had all of us laughing. I also scored a century in my comeback match against South Africa and another one against the West Indies. But what stands out the most to me is the time spent in the dressing room with the team—those moments of fun, discussions, and team spirit were truly special. I miss them and will keep them in my heart forever.”