India is gearing up for their second ICC trophy in less than a year as they prepare for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. The squad for the prestigious tournament has already been announced, and while key players like Jasprit Bumrah and Virat Kohli are expected to play pivotal roles, it is the legendary South African batter AB de Villiers who has identified a surprising X-factor for the Indian team.

De Villiers highlighted the importance of Kuldeep Yadav, the left-arm leg-spinner, as the potential game-changer for India. He explained that Kuldeep could prove invaluable, especially on the spin-friendly pitches in Dubai, where all of India’s matches will take place. De Villiers pointed out that the conditions in Dubai tend to favor spinners, and Kuldeep’s skill set could shine in these conditions. This makes him a key player to watch as India looks to capture the trophy.

Kuldeep Yadav, who has been sidelined due to a left groin injury, is set to return to the field soon. He missed out on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy earlier this year after being advised to report to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) for rehabilitation. However, the star spinner is now gearing up for his comeback in the upcoming ODI series against England. Before that, Kuldeep is expected to make his return to competitive cricket in the final group stage match of the 2025 Ranji Trophy, representing Uttar Pradesh.

The India Squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Includes: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill (VC), KL Ram Ammed Shami, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Kuldeep Yadav