Dubai, March 1: India is set to play its final league match of the 2025 Champions Trophy against New Zealand on Sunday, March 2. While both teams have already secured their places in the semi-finals, the match remains crucial as it will determine the standings in Group A. The outcome will decide which team finishes at the top and who their respective semi-final opponents will be.
The Indian team is expected to make one change in the playing XI, specifically in the fast-bowling department. With New Zealand featuring five left-handed batters and pacer Mohammed Shami experiencing slight discomfort in his calf during the match against Pakistan, team management is considering bringing in left-arm fast bowler Arshdeep Singh. During Friday’s practice session, indications suggested that Arshdeep is likely to replace Shami, given that the latter recently returned from a long injury layoff.
Arshdeep bowled 13 overs under the supervision of bowling coach Morne Morkel, completing his run-up with full intensity, whereas Shami only bowled 6-7 overs at a reduced pace. This further hints at India’s potential decision to rest Shami ahead of the crucial semi-final. During the February 23 match against Pakistan, Shami required treatment on his right leg after bowling his third over, raising concerns about his fitness.
Speaking to the media, KL Rahul was non-committal about whether India would alter its winning combination, but assistant coach Ryan Doeschate later hinted at a possible change in the bowling lineup. Apart from team selection, the match holds special significance for Virat Kohli, as it will mark his 300th ODI appearance.
India’s Probable Playing XI:
Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, and Arshdeep Singh.
