Shubman Gill becomes India captain in between ICC Champions Trophy 2025

India opener Shubman Gill could make his ODI captaincy debut in the final group-stage match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand. According to a report by The Indian Express, the Indian vice-captain may lead the team as the management is considering resting skipper Rohit Sharma.

Rohit Sharma injured his hamstring during the Group A match against Pakistan on February 23. The 37-year-old left the field after the 26th over during Pakistan's innings. Shubman Gill took charge in Rohit’s absence. Rohit returned after a few overs to resume leadership, but he did not appear to be fully fit.

Rohit Sharma Skipped Batting During Training Session on Wednesday

Concerns over Rohit Sharma’s fitness grew when he skipped batting during the training session in Dubai on Wednesday, two days after their win against Pakistan. Rohit watched from the sidelines, possibly due to his hamstring injury.

According to multiple reports, Rohit was the only Indian batter who did not bat in the nets or take throwdowns. He spent time in discussion with head coach Gautam Gambhir. However, he did manage a brief sprint during the session.

Rohit has scored 61 runs in two matches at an average of 30.50 with a strike rate of 119.60 in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Shubman Gill has been in excellent form with a century against Bangladesh. He played a 46-run knock against Pakistan, where the Men in Blue secured a semi-final berth with a six-wicket win.

Shubman Gill Set to Lead Team India for the First Time in ODIs

Shubman Gill is likely to lead Team India in the ODI format for the first time during the upcoming match against New Zealand in Dubai, as per The Indian Express. With India already securing a semi-final spot, Rohit Sharma may sit out to avoid risking his hamstring injury ahead of the knockout matches.

Shubman Gill, who missed Wednesday's practice due to illness, returned to training on Thursday and batted extensively in the nets. The match against New Zealand holds little significance. It is worth mentioning that there is a one-day gap between this match and India's semi-final in Dubai on March 4.

Rishabh Pant Likely to Replace Rohit Sharma Against New Zealand

India might need to adjust their opening combination if Rohit Sharma is unavailable for the match against New Zealand. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has recovered from fever and could replace Rohit. KL Rahul is the primary wicketkeeper, but Pant’s inclusion would require a change in the XI.

Tamil Nadu cricketer Washington Sundar is another option, as his inclusion would strengthen the spin and all-round department. Sundar can trouble New Zealand left-handers, including Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham, Michael Bracewell, and Mitchell Santner, with his off-spin bowling.

India might experiment with their bench strength in the group-stage match. The team does not have a backup opener after dropping Yashasvi Jaiswal for Varun Chakravarthy. KL Rahul has experience opening, and Pant, who has opened in shorter formats before, could be a like-for-like aggressive option.

Also read: Azhar Mahmood attacks Wasim Akram & other critics, blames injuries for Pakistan's CT 2025 disaster