2. A shockers' list of excluded players

India has always been a formidable side, known for maintaining the right balance across all departments in significant tournaments, often translating into success on the global stage. However, the recently announced squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy has sparked intense debate among fans and critics, with several surprising omissions leaving many puzzled. One of the most talked-about and disappointing exclusions is of Karun Nair, who had an outstanding Vijay Hazare Trophy campaign as Vidarbha's captain, amassing over 770 runs in just eight innings.

Mohammed Siraj, a consistent performer with the ball, has also been surprisingly omitted, raising questions about the decision. Sanju Samson's absence has added to the controversy, as the wicketkeeper-batter has been a standout in white-ball cricket, known for his aggressive batting and reliable glove work. These omissions have sparked a larger conversation about the selection criteria and whether domestic and international performances are being given due consideration, making the build-up to the tournament all the more intriguing.