Image: Key changes are planned for India's squad for the final match against New Zealand / © Cricfit
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.
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.