Rohit Sharma to sit out of India vs New Zealand Champions Trophy match; replacements finalised

India have had a smooth run in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 so far, but there are concerns over Rohit Sharma’s availability for their upcoming match against New Zealand. The Indian skipper seemed to struggle with his hamstring in the chase against Pakistan, which raises doubts about his participation.

Rohit Sharma left the field for some time while fielding in India's recent match against Pakistan. Vice-captain Shubman Gill led the team in his absence. Rohit returned to lead the team and later opened the batting alongside Gill. He managed to score 20 off 15 balls before being dismissed by Shaheen Afridi.

Rohit Sharma Might Be Rested for Final Group-Stage Match vs New Zealand

Following a two-day break, India had a training session on Wednesday. Rohit Sharma was the only batter who did not take part in net practice. He remained indoors and worked with the strength and conditioning coach and the physiotherapist. Sharma did some light jogging but avoided training to the full extent.

India are set to face New Zealand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, March 2. The next couple of days will be crucial in determining Rohit’s availability for the match. They have the option to rest Rohit against New Zealand to avoid any further risk, as they have already secured a semi-final spot.

Rohit has scored 61 runs in two matches with an average of 30.50 and a strike rate of 119.60 in the 2025 edition of the Champions Trophy. Overall, the right-handed batter has amassed 542 runs in 12 innings at an average of 49.27 and a strike rate of 85.48, including four fifties and one century.

Team India May Need a Makeshift Opener Amid Rohit Sharma's Uncertainty

With Rohit Sharma’s availability uncertain, the India cricket team might have to field a makeshift opening pair against New Zealand. Notably, the selectors didn't pick a reserve opener. Yashasvi Jaiswal was part of the provisional squad but was replaced by Varun Chakravarthy before the tournament.

As an opener, KL Rahul has scored 915 runs in 22 ODIs at an average of 43.57. However, Rahul's promotion could disrupt the middle order ahead of the semi-finals. Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar trained extensively in the nets. If Rohit is ruled out, it remains to be seen who will partner Gill at the top.

India and New Zealand Secure Semi-Final Spots in ICC Champions Trophy 2025

India and New Zealand have secured their spots in the semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 from Group A. Both teams earned four points after victories over Bangladesh and Pakistan.

New Zealand confirmed their berth with a win against Bangladesh on February 24. Pakistan and Bangladesh, who are yet to open their account in the table, are eliminated from the tournament.

India will play their semi-final match in Dubai, regardless of their position in the group stage. The first semi-final is scheduled to take place just one day after India’s final group-stage match.

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