Rishabh Pant Set to Return as India Prepares for New Zealand Clash in Champions Trophy 2025
With India already securing a semifinal spot in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, key changes are expected in their playing XI for the final Group A match against New Zealand on March 2 in Dubai. Captain Rohit Sharma is likely to miss the game due to a hamstring injury, while Shubman Gill is unwell. Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant has recovered from a viral fever and is expected to return, with KL Rahul moving up the order. Mohammed Shami dismissed injury concerns, bowling at full pace in practice. India aims to fine-tune their squad ahead of the knockouts.
For the final Group A match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, India is expected to make key changes to their playing XI against New Zealand on March 2 in Dubai. With India already securing a semifinal spot, Rishabh Pant is likely to return to the team after recovering from a viral fever. KL Rahul, who has been in top form, might move up the order, especially with Rohit Sharma nursing a hamstring injury and Shubman Gill missing practice due to illness.
After watching last night practice session looks like there is something communicated to RP17 – saw Rohit also which make it more eveident – but there will be more – A couple more may be
— Rohit Juglan (@rohitjuglan) February 27, 2025
Meanwhile, Pakistan will face Bangladesh in Match 9 of the tournament at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Both teams are already eliminated, with Pakistan dominating the head-to-head record, winning 34 of 39 ODIs against Bangladesh. The pitch at Rawalpindi is batting-friendly, with an average first-innings score of 211, but recent matches have seen higher totals. Weather forecasts predict a 70% chance of rain, which might affect play.
Key players for Pakistan include Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi, while Bangladesh will rely on Najmul Hossain Shanto and Taskin Ahmed. Despite recent struggles, Pakistan remains the favorite due to their superior record. The match will be broadcast on Star Sports and streamed on JioStar.
Comments