ICC Champions Trophy 2025, IND vs NZ: New Zealand has five left-handed batters in their lineup, and Mohammed Shami had some calf trouble during the Pakistan game. This may lead the Indian team to bring in left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh for Sunday’s Champions Trophy match.
If Friday’s practice session is anything to go by, Arshdeep is likely to replace Mohammed Shami, who has just returned to the team after a long injury break.
Arshdeep Singh Likely to Replace Shami for New Zealand Clash
Arshdeep Singh practiced under the guidance of bowling coach Morne Morkel, bowling 13 overs with a full run-up. In contrast, Mohammed Shami only bowled 6-7 overs with a shorter run-up and wasn’t bowling at full speed. During the match against Pakistan on February 23, Shami received treatment for his right leg from the physios after bowling his third over.
The players’ body language during Friday’s training session suggested that India might give Shami a much-needed rest before the crucial semi-finals.
While KL Rahul, speaking to the media, was uncertain about changing the winning combination, assistant coach Ryan Doeschate hinted later in the evening that the bowling line-up could see some changes.
Read More
Rohit Sharma’s Injury Update: “Managing It Well”
Ahead of India’s important ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Group A match against New Zealand on Sunday, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate gave an update on Rohit Sharma. Speaking to reporters in Dubai, ten Doeschate confirmed that Rohit is handling his injury well.
“He’s all right. As you can see, he’s batting, and he did a little bit of fielding earlier. It’s an injury he’s had before, so he knows how to manage it really well, and he’s on top of it,” he said.
The conversation also turned to the wicketkeeping pair of KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. While Pant has been sidelined, ten Doeschate recognized the challenge of making team selections at such a high level.
“It’s been very hard on Rishabh not playing, but that’s the nature of sport at this level. KL’s been good. He didn’t get many chances, and when you’re batting at six or seven, it’s difficult to get proper opportunities,” he explained.
However, the former Netherlands international emphasized Rahul’s contributions during crucial moments.
“Obviously, the third ODI in India, he did really well, and that knock against Bangladesh proved crucial in the end,” he noted.
ALSO READ: SA vs ENG: Ben Duckett Almost Hits Stumps With Bat In Frustration After Dismissal
