Rohit Sharma Playing Against New Zealand? India’s Probable XI for Champions Trophy 2025
Rohit Sharma Playing Against New Zealand: Will He Miss the Champions Trophy 2025 Clash?
India is set to face New Zealand in their third ICC Champions Trophy 2025 group stage match on March 2 at the Dubai International Stadium. However, the big question remains—will Rohit Sharma play against New Zealand?
The Indian skipper suffered a hamstring strain while chasing the ball during Pakistan’s innings on February 23. He left the field after the 26th over, raising concerns about his fitness. While he returned later, he didn’t seem fully fit. Reports suggest Rohit Sharma might be rested for the match against New Zealand as a precaution.
Will Shubman Gill Lead India?
If Rohit Sharma is rested, vice-captain Shubman Gill will take charge. The Indian team management is considering this move since India has already qualified for the semifinals, and they want Rohit to be fully fit for the crucial knockout game on March 4.
Concerns grew when Rohit Sharma was the only Indian batter who did not participate in the net sessions two days after the Pakistan match. Instead, he spent time strategizing with head coach Gautam Gambhir. This further hints that India might rest him as a precautionary measure before the semifinals.
Who Will Replace Rohit Sharma?
If Rohit Sharma sits out, India will have to shuffle their batting order. Since India did not include a backup opener after dropping Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul is expected to open the innings with Shubman Gill.
For Rohit’s replacement in the playing XI, the likely candidates are:
- Rishabh Pant
- Washington Sundar
Both players have reportedly spent extended hours in the nets before the match, indicating that one of them could step in.
India’s Probable Playing XI Against New Zealand
If Rohit Sharma is rested, this could be India’s playing XI against New Zealand:
- KL Rahul
- Shubman Gill (C)
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- Axar Patel
- Rishabh Pant / Washington Sundar
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Harshit Rana
- Mohammed Shami
- Kuldeep Yadav
What’s at Stake in This Match?
Since both India and New Zealand have already secured their spots in the semifinals, this match does not hold much weight in terms of qualification. However, it will allow India to test their bench strength and New Zealand to fine-tune their strategies.
New Zealand, under Kane Williamson’s leadership, has been in good form, and India will not take them lightly. Despite being an inconsequential match, momentum before the semifinals is crucial for both teams.
