India's Champions Trophy squad announced

India will also play two warm-up games against New Zealand and Bangladesh before they begin their title defense

India begin their campaign against arch rivals Pakistan on June 4.

Ashwin, who missed the IPL due to sports hernia, has regained his full fitness and will lead India’s spin department

Ravindra Jadeja, the world No.1 test bowler had a brilliant season and his ability to bat in the lower middle order will be an advantage for the defending champions.

India’s death over specialist Jasprit Bumrah was an automatic choice in the squad. His ability to land Yorkers and slower balls will be crucial to contain the batsman.

Umesh Yadav will be the key bowler for India and if he maintains his current form, India will have a big chance to defend the title.

Mohammed Shami comes back into the Indian side after long injury break. The Bengal paceman has not been regular for Delhi Daredevils in the IPL but his performance for India in the past and the ability to handle both the old and new ball has made his path easier.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar who is currently the Purple cap holder in the Indian Premier League, will be the mainstay of the Indian pace attack.

As expected, MS Dhoni will keep wickets for India. The former captain will have an added responsibility to strengthen the middle-order.

Manish Pandey, who is considered as one of the finest players of T20 format, will have to play a key role if India has to win the trophy. The stylish right-hander has been good form in IPL with the Kolkata Knight Riders.

KL Rahul’s injury has opened the doors for Shikhar Dhawan. He will open the innings with Rohit Sharma.

Ajinkya Rahane has been selected as the back-up opener.

Yuvraj Singh who made fine comeback after 4 year in the ODI squad against England has managed to retain his place in the Champions Trophy

Kedar Jadhav had impressive series against England and he has been included in the squad mainly because of utility. He can take dawn the gloves and also do a job with the ball if required.

Hardik Pandya has filled the gap of a seaming all-rounder. He can be very useful with his extra pace in English conditions, not to forget his ability to tonk the ball down the order.

The Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) finally gave a green signal to India’s participation in the Champions Trophy as the State Cricket Associations unanimously decided in favour of India’s participation in the SGM on Saturday.

Rohit Sharma has recovered from injury that kept him away from action for 4 months. He has returned to the Indian squad and will play a crucial role in India’s top order

Virat Kohli who recently took over as full-time captain from MS Dhoni will lead the Indian side at the ICC Champions Trophy in June 2017.

India will enter the tournament as defending champions after winning the coveted trophy in 2013. The final 15 have finally been announced after the deadline of May 25th was missed. This team will have the honour of defending India’s glory once again in England.