New Delhi: Former cricketer Aakash Chopra has advised Team India to prioritize chasing in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, highlighting concerns over their bowling attack. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra stressed that India’s strength lies in its batting, making it crucial to structure their strategy accordingly.
“It’s a rule in white-ball cricket—play to your strengths in the second innings. If your batting is strong, chase; if your bowling is dominant, defend. This Indian team thrives on its batting,” Chopra explained.
India’s squad features a deep batting lineup till No. 8, but their bowling remains a concern despite having multiple spinners. Chopra acknowledged the variation in the attack but emphasized that the true match-winners are the batters.
“The pressure to win should be on our batting unit. If you win the toss, bowl first. Dew also plays a factor later in games, which could work in India’s favor,” he added.
With all of India’s group-stage matches set in Dubai, Chopra dismissed worries about pitch deterioration in the second innings. “The pitches in Dubai won’t demand batting first. India should chase in almost every game,” he concluded.
India kicks off their Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai, and Chopra’s insights could shape their approach in the tournament.
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