India vs New Zealand: With a semifinal spot already secured, Team India might take the opportunity to make a few strategic changes in their final ICC Champions Trophy group-stage match against New Zealand on March 2. While Rohit Sharma is reportedly fit, he could be rested as a precaution, while veteran pacer Mohammed Shami is expected to sit out to ensure he is fully fit for the knockout stage. This opens the door for players like Arshdeep Singh and Rishabh Pant to get much-needed game time.
India vs New Zealand: India’s Likely Playing XI vs New Zealand – Will Rohit Sharma and Shami Be Rested?
Table of Contents
Predicted India Playing XI vs New Zealand
- KL Rahul
- Shubman Gill (C)
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- Rishabh Pant (WK)
- Hardik Pandya
- Axar Patel
- Ravindra Jadeja / Washington Sundar
- Harshit Rana
- Arshdeep Singh
- Kuldeep Yadav
On the bench: Rohit Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakravarthy
Key Changes Expected in India’s XI
1. Rohit Sharma to Be Rested? KL Rahul to Open
Rohit Sharma suffered a minor hamstring injury in the game against Pakistan, and while the Indian team management has confirmed he is fine, he might be given a breather before the semifinals. If rested, KL Rahul will open the innings alongside Shubman Gill, who will also captain the team in Rohit’s absence.
2. Rishabh Pant Likely to Get a Game
Pant is yet to feature in the tournament, and with Rohit potentially sitting out, he could slot in as a left-handed option in the middle order. His inclusion will provide balance and add depth to the batting lineup.
3. Shami Out, Arshdeep In
Shami, who made a return to international cricket after 14 months, showed signs of discomfort against Pakistan. Though he completed his spell, the team management is likely to rest him to ensure he is fresh for the semifinal. Arshdeep Singh, who has been impressive in training, is expected to replace him. His left-arm angle could prove useful against New Zealand’s left-handed-heavy batting lineup.
4. Spin Trio to Remain Intact, But Jadeja Could Be Rested
Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav are expected to retain their spots in the playing XI. However, India might rest Ravindra Jadeja and bring in Washington Sundar as a like-for-like replacement to test the bench strength.
Balancing Rotation and Momentum
While India would want to keep their winning momentum going, resting key players ahead of the semifinal is a wise move. New Zealand, too, has already qualified, but this match will determine the group topper, which could influence the semifinal matchups.
With India looking to fine-tune their combination before the knockout stage, all eyes will be on how the team management juggles resting key players while maintaining a winning rhythm. Will these changes prove effective? We’ll find out on March 2!
FAQs
Why might Rohit Sharma be rested?
Rohit suffered a minor hamstring injury and may be rested as a precaution before the semifinals.
Who will open the innings if Rohit is rested?
KL Rahul is expected to open alongside Shubman Gill, who will also captain the team.
