Probable starting XI of Team India for the semi final against Bangladesh

Defending champions India are all geared up to face neighbours Bangladesh in the semi final of the Champions Trophy. India will start as favourites, but will need to be wary against this Bangladesh side. Team selection will be critical, as Kohli needs to decide on his preferred bowling attack for this game. So here is the probable starting XI of team India for the semi final against Bangladesh.

In the other semi final, Pakistan surprisingly beat home team England as they ensured all Asian final in a few days time. It should give India a fair warning about the dangers of heading into a match with the favourites tag.

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But India does not need a warning, as they were upset by Bangladesh in the 2007 World Cup, which ultimately derailed their campaign. They were almost shocked by Bangladesh again in last year’s T20 World Cup. Had it not been for MS Dhoni’s superb run out, India would have been knocked out of the tournament.

For today’s match, India will most likely go in with the same side that beat South Africa a few days back.

The opening pair of Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan have been sensational in ICC tournaments, and India will be hoping that they provide a good platform in a crunch game such as this. Dhawan in particular will be looking to cement his position as the top run scorer in this year’s tournament.

Kohli, Yuvraj and Dhoni create a formidable middle order, with the likes of Pandya and Kedar playing the role of finishers in the team. Jadeja and Ashwin will be handy with the bat if needed but their main role is to control the middle of the innings.

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Ashwin’s inclusion in the side against South Africa proved to be a great move not only because of the skill and guile that he brought to the table, but also because Jadeja became a more potent bowler with his partner back in action. These two will be key for India against Bangladesh.

The pace duo of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah will look to provide wickets at the top and contain the runs at the death overs. Pandya may also be called upon for a few overs as well.