IND vs NZ: India has had a dream start at the ICC Champions Trophy, securing a semifinal spot with dominant performances. However, as they face New Zealand in their last league-stage encounter on March 2, the match presents a chance for skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir to experiment with the playing XI. While the game might be inconsequential in terms of qualification, it provides an opportunity to test bench strength ahead of the crucial knockouts.
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IND vs NZ : India at Champions Trophy – 4 Selection Conundrums Rohit Sharma Faces for IND vs NZ – Shami, KL Rahul Out?
Here are the four major selection dilemmas Rohit Sharma faces before the IND vs NZ clash:
1. Should Mohammed Shami Be Rested for Arshdeep Singh?
Mohammed Shami’s return to international cricket has been nothing short of spectacular, highlighted by his five-wicket haul against Bangladesh. However, concerns over his fitness remain, as he struggled towards the end of his spell in the last match. Given the importance of having a fully fit Shami for the knockouts, resting him against New Zealand could be a strategic move.
Arshdeep Singh, with his left-arm angle and ability to swing the ball, presents a strong case for inclusion. He has already made a name for himself in T20Is and could seamlessly transition into ODIs. If India wants to keep Shami fresh for the semis, Arshdeep deserves a chance to showcase his skills.
2. Should Washington Sundar Get a Game Against New Zealand?
Washington Sundar’s inclusion in the squad was primarily as a spin-bowling all-rounder. Given that New Zealand has multiple left-handed batters—Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham, and Mitchell Santner—Sundar could be a useful weapon in India’s arsenal.
The challenge, however, lies in deciding whom to rest. Ravindra Jadeja has been in sublime form, both with the bat and ball, making him an automatic choice in the XI. But given the luxury of an already secured semifinal spot, resting Jadeja and playing Sundar could help India test their spin depth before the knockouts.
3. Should Rishabh Pant Be Given Match Time Over KL Rahul?
KL Rahul has cemented his position as India’s first-choice wicketkeeper-batsman in ODIs. His consistency, particularly in the middle-order, has made him an indispensable part of the team. However, Rishabh Pant remains a potent option, especially given his aggressive stroke play and ability to turn games on their head.
Pant’s ODI numbers might not be as consistent as Rahul’s, but his superior strike rate of 109.18 suggests that he can be a game-changer. With Rahul having played just one significant knock in the tournament, a case can be made to rest him and give Pant a chance before the high-pressure knockout games. Alternatively, India might consider resting an in-form batter like Shubman Gill to accommodate Pant in the XI.
4. Should Varun Chakravarthy Be Tested Before the Finals?
Varun Chakravarthy’s late inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad as Yashasvi Jaiswal’s replacement raised eyebrows, but his T20I numbers since October last year make him a tempting X-factor option. While Kuldeep Yadav has been India’s go-to wrist-spinner, his mixed performances in the tournament open the door for a possible Chakravarthy experiment.
New Zealand’s ability to handle spin will be tested, and giving Chakravarthy a run in this match could provide India with more clarity on their bowling combinations for the semis. If the team management sees him as a potential game-changer, this is the perfect opportunity to test his match fitness and impact in 50-over cricket.
India has the luxury of treating the New Zealand match as a testing ground while maintaining a winning momentum. With concerns over Shami’s fitness, the potential inclusion of Sundar, a selection dilemma between Pant and Rahul, and the Varun Chakravarthy factor, Rohit Sharma and the management have several tough calls to make.
Will India play safe with their winning combination, or will they use this match as a strategic experiment before the knockout stage? The answers will unfold on March 2, setting the stage for an exciting contest.
FAQs
Why should India consider resting Mohammed Shami?
Shami has been struggling with fitness issues, and resting him could ensure he remains fresh for the knockout stages.
Why is Washington Sundar a good option against New Zealand?
New Zealand has multiple left-handed batters, making Sundar’s off-spin a valuable asset.
