India are playing their last group match of the Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand at the Dubai International Stadium. New Zealand opted to field first after winning the toss. India made one change, introducing spinner Varun Chakravarthy instead of Harshit Rana, as confirmed by Rohit Sharma at the toss.
“One change for us – Harshit has been rested, Varun is playing for us,” Rohit said.
With Varun Chakravarthy included, India have four spinners in the team Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Chakravarthy. Rana has been rested, leaving Mohammed Shami to lead the pace attack with Hardik Pandya.
Both teams have qualified for the semi-finals, but this game is crucial as it will determine who plays South Africa and Australia.
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India have already qualified for the semi-finals. If they win this match, they will face Australia. If they lose, they will play South Africa. Keeping the semi-final in mind, India might have decided to go with four spinners because the Dubai pitch has been helpful. With all their key spinners in the squad, India will try to put pressure on New Zealand batters, who are usually good against spin.
Depending on how he plays in this game, Varun Chakravarthy will play in the semi-final. He may be chosen because of his unusual bowling style. Most teams are not used to playing against him in international cricket so he may be able to provide an advantage.
Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy.
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